Are you looking to get out and about and meet new people? Then we hope you will join us 11am – 1pm on Monday 13th January at LifeCare’s warm and welcoming community cafe, CafeLife (2 Cheyne Street), as we celebrate the 1st birthday of our Chatty Cafe and help turn Blue Monday into Brew Monday.
Enjoy coffee, tea, cake and conversation as we bring the community together round our Chatter and Natter Table.
We’re incredibly proud of all we have achieved this year and hope you can join us to celebrate!
Chatty Cafe is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.
The City Art Centre, dedicated to championing historic and contemporary Scottish visual arts and crafts, has announced an exciting range of exhibitions for 2025.
Additional details on each exhibition, along with a diverse public events programme, will be revealed later in the year.
Out of Chaos: Post-War Scottish Art 1945-2000 17 May – 12 October 2025 The post-war era was a period of seismic shifts – political and social, scientific and cultural. Emerging from the events of the Second World War, communities lived with the legacies of conflict while looking ahead to the future. Contemporary artists responded to these changing times, addressing both traditional and modern themes in their work as they pushed the boundaries of creativity. By the end of the century, the artistic landscape was entirely transformed.
Scheduled to complement John Bellany: A Life in Self-Portraiture, this survey exhibition examines the wider context of post-war Scottish art. Charting the years between the late 1940s and late 1990s, it showcases evolving approaches to figurative and landscape subjects, the growth of abstraction and pop art, and the development of new media. Out of Chaos presents a range of artworks from the City Art Centre’s permanent collection, featuring key pieces by William Johnstone, Joan Eardley, Eduardo Paolozzi, Ian Hamilton Finlay, Elizabeth Blackadder and Maud Sulter.
John Bellany: A Life in Self-Portraiture 31 May – 28 September 2025 John Bellany was one of the most significant Scottish painters of the modern era. A Life in Self-Portraiture brings together over 80 autobiographical drawings, paintings, prints and sketchbooks, spanning from the early 1960s until the artist’s death in 2013.
John Bellany was one of the most prolific self-portraitists in history, obsessively documenting his own image throughout his lifetime. This exhibition captures the wide range of works created across different mediums, from carefully observed student studies, to his epic pictorial narratives where he disguised himself in different roles and fantastical characters. The exhibition contains works on loan from public and private collections across the country, including the artist’s estate, many of which have never been seen publicly before.
An accompanying publication includes a foreword by Helen Bellany, plus an essay and interview from exhibition curators’ Bill Hare and Sandy Moffat. Moffat’s account charts his long-term friendship and collaboration with Bellany, from their time at art school up until the latter’s death.
John Bellany: A Life in Self-Portraiture captures the span of an extraordinary life and career, told through the lens of the artist’s own eyes and the words of the people who knew him best.
Unmasked: Exploring Scottish Portraiture 13 September 2025 – May 2026 Portraiture is an age-old artform with a seemingly simple purpose: to record the likeness of a human subject. Yet the enduring appeal of portraiture lies in its complexity. Behind every portrait is a series of stories – interwoven narratives about the sitter, the artist, and the circumstances that brought them together.
Unmasked: Exploring Scottish Portraiture examines this genre in depth, with a selection of highlights from the City Art Centre’s permanent collection. Featuring examples of painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and photography, the exhibition spans almost 400 years of artistic production, from historic portraits by George Jamesone to contemporary works by Sekai Machache. Unmasked shares new research findings from the collection and reveals several recent acquisitions, on display for the first time.
Carla van de Puttelaar Facing the Law: Portraits Past & Present 8 November 2025 – 8 March 2026 Carla van de Puttelaar (b. 1967) is an internationally acclaimed Dutch photographer and art historian based in the Netherlands. She has always had a keen interest in portraiture and over the last two years she has been photographing women working in the Scottish legal profession.
Facing the Law: Portraits Past & Present will feature around 80 of these portraits, celebrating women in the law, from individuals at the outset of their careers to those pioneers who have paved the way for the next generation, such as the Right Honourable Lady Dorrian, who is the first female Lord Justice Clerk. Displayed alongside these photographs will be a small group of oil paintings from public and private collections, dated from the 17th and 18th centuries, a time when the law was an entirely male dominated occupation, by leading portraitists of the era including David Scougall, Allan Ramsay, and Henry Raeburn.
This exhibition explores Scottish portraiture in the legal profession, drawing parallels and contrasts between past and present.
Carla van de Puttelaar; Facing the Law: Portraits Past & Present is being sponsored by Burness Paull.
Michael Fullerton 22 November 2025 – 22 February 2026 This major exhibition by Glasgow-born artist Michael Fullerton will feature a new body of paintings, as well as a survey of screen-prints and works selected from the City Art Centre Collections.
Mona Yoo 2025 Artist in Residence
Edinburgh-based artist Mona Yoo has been invited to develop a long-term project throughout 2025. A period of research and on-site investigation into the history and architecture of the City Art Centre building will result in a series of interruptions and interventions, and culminate in an exhibition outcome in early 2026.
Councillor Val Walker, Edinburgh’s Convener of Culture and Communities said:“The City Art Centre is set for an extraordinary year ahead as we begin to reveal highlights from the 2025 programme.
“Since its opening in 1980, the Centre has always been more than just a gallery—it was created as a space for artists, craftspeople, and art lovers to gather. Now, 45 years on, the City Art Centre remains one of the most accessible and welcoming venues for art enthusiasts in the capital and is proud to house Edinburgh’s art collection, one of the finest in the country.
“2025 brings many exciting exhibitions, starting in the Spring with ‘Out of Chaos: Post-War Scottish Art 1945-2000’ and ‘John Bellany: A Life in Self-Portraiture‘. This two-floor exhibition, featuring over 80 works, showcases Bellany’s impressive body of work, many pieces of which are being shown publicly for the first time, courtesy of public and private collections, including the artist’s estate.
“I’m also thrilled to welcome Mona Yoo as our new artist in residence. I’m sure Mona’s creativity and vision will bring some new energy and inspiration to our venue – and I’m excited to see the resulting exhibition early next year.
“Later in the year, we’ll delve deeper into the world of portraiture with ‘Unmasked: Exploring Scottish Portraiture’ and ‘Carla van de Puttelaar’s Facing the Law: Portraits Past & Present’. We’ll also host a major exhibition featuring new works by Michael Fullerton.
“With a mix of charged and free exhibitions throughout the year, 2025 promises to be an excellent opportunity for visitors to reconnect with beloved and favourite artists, and perhaps discover some exciting new ones.”
Childline delivered almost 5,000 counselling sessions across 2023/24 where the main concern was loneliness.
Causes include being bullied by peers and seeing their friends having fun on social media and feeling as though they are missing out.
This January, Childline continues to be there for young people who need a safe and confidential place to turn to.
Thousands of children and young people across the UK continue to turn to Childline to discuss and seek help for feelings of loneliness.
In 2023/24 the NSPCC service delivered almost 5,000 counselling sessions related to the concern, both online and over the phone from one of their 13 bases around the country, including Aberdeen and Glasgow in Scotland.
Reasons children and young people have cited for feeling lonely in the last year include moving house or school and having to make new friends, their parents working long hours, being bullied by peers, and seeing their friends having fun on social media and feeling as though they are missing out.
One 11-year-old girl from Scotland said to Childline: “I feel so lonely at school, I only really have one friend.
“What’s harder though is I feel I can’t talk about how much it upsets me. My parents seem annoyed or judgemental when I try to talk about my feelings. Speaking to Childline feels like a weight has been lifted.”
The charity is revealing these figures to remind children and young people that they are not alone this January, or any other time of the year, with Childline ready to provide help and support 24/7.
Adeniyi Alade, Childline Service Head, based in Aberdeen, said: “The dark and cold winter months can be a difficult time for many of us when feelings of loneliness and isolation can become more intense.
“Sadly, a high number of children and young people contact Childline because they feel lonely and isolated. We know this can have a serious impact on their mental wellbeing, often leaving young people feeling depressed and helpless.
“Children don’t have to face these emotions alone. Childline is here for every young person, no matter what their situation. Whether they’re missing a member of their family, struggling with friendships and bullying, or finding it difficult to talk with those around them, our counsellors are ready to listen.
“We’d encourage young people to get support as early as possible because that can help prevent the situation from getting worse.”
Tips for adults to help children and young people who may be experiencing loneliness include:
Communicate openly: Encourage children to talk about their feelings and listen without judgement.
Discover what’s causing the problem: Gently explore why they might be feeling this way and validate their emotions.
Encourage socialising: Help children find opportunities to connect with peers through hobbies, clubs, or activities.
Help them build their confidence: Celebrate their strengths and achievements and remind them of the positive relationships in their lives.
Build a supportive environment: Loneliness isn’t something that can be resolved with one conversation. It is important to create an environment of openness where a child can talk to you about their feelings and any struggles they may be facing.
To support young people who may be dealing with loneliness, the NSPCC also offers an online text befriending service called Building Connections.
Barratt Homes East Scotland will soon be welcoming prospective buyers to visit one of the UK’s most iconic redevelopment projects, as homes at Bangour Village, West Lothian launch next month.
Built on the grounds of former Bangour Hospital outside Livingston, the regeneration of the site is being carried out by a variety of housebuilders, including Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes which will join in May.
Earlier this year, Ambassador Group finalised the sale of 14.55 acres of land to Barratt Homes for the development of 179 private residences. The first phase of properties will be available to reserve from February 2025 and includes three and four-bed homes.
These new homes will become part of the larger Bangour Village Estate, an ambitious redevelopment nestled in 215 acres of woodland. In total, the project aims to introduce up to 998 energy-efficient homes that will benefit from excellent transport links to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Once completed, the brand-new community will have a range of amenities including a primary school, nursery, playing fields, a commercial hub comprising a supermarket, café/restaurant, and expansive woodland that has been preserved.
Lorraine Paterson, Sales Director at Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “As locals will know, the Bangour site is cherished within the community for its scenic beauty and rich heritage.
“We’ve taken care at every opportunity when designing and planning quality homes on the grounds, making sure properties reflect the needs of families, couples and individuals, while being inspired by the spacious tranquillity of Bangour.
“By working with Ambassador Group and other housebuilders, we hope to see the site reborn as a place to live and thrive.”
To find out more about Barratt @ Bangour Village, visit:
Somewhere by Nico is calling for all detectives as it brings back its sell-out Murder on the Midnight Express cocktail experience, inspired by the classic game of suspense
Running for a limited time only, the menu will be available at Somewhere by Nico in Edinburgh at Charlotte Lane from 8th January – to 2nd February 2025
0% alcohol options are also available, providing new ways to enjoy the experience without compromise
Back by popular demand, Murder on the Midnight Express is making its highly anticipated return to Somewhere by Nico in for a limited time only. From 8th January — 2nd February, this thrilling cocktail experience invites guests to step into a world of mystery, inspired by the classic game of suspense.
As the train pulls back into Somewhere by Nico, guests will be immersed into the exhilarating journey to solve the mystery of who shot Gustave Laroche. For £45 per person, the five-course cocktail menu takes participants on a flavourful and intriguing ride, with each sip revealing a new clue.
For those seeking an extra twist, an optional bonus cocktail provides an additional hint to elevate the detective experience.
Perfect for a new year outing with friends or family, Murder on the Midnight Express is an experience like no other – combining captivating storytelling, exceptional cocktails, and an immersive mystery to solve. With 0% alcohol options available, there’s something for everyone at Somewhere by Nico – without compromising on taste.
This limited-time menu will be available at both Somewhere by Nico Edinburgh (39a Charlotte Lane) and Somewhere by Nico Glasgow (358 Byres Road).
Limited-Time Offer Guests are encouraged to book early to secure their seat in January with a limited-time offer at just £30pp (saving £15pp).
Whether for a friend, loved one, or a treat for yourself, Murder on the Midnight Express is the perfect gift that provides an unforgettable experience to share.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of Six by Nico, commented:“We’re thrilled to bring back Murder on the Midnight Express to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time. This unique cocktail journey blends mystery, adventure, and creative storytelling to offer our guests an experience that goes beyond just drinks.
“We can’t wait to welcome guests as they put their detective skills to the test and solve the mystery of Gustave Laroche’s murder. With a carefully crafted five-course cocktail journey, plus 0% alcohol options, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”
For more information about Somewhere by Nico and to secure your booking, please visit here
Come to see the work results and shared experiences of our weaving workshops participants!
We have been running community weaving workshops in Leith with aim to support community building with positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.
The exhibition is celebrating the end of ‘The Conscious Weaving’ project, funded by community voting programme Leith Chooses 2024. We want to show the importance of free art community project and share healing impacts of weaving art practice.
Come to see us and the participants on the opening night on 17th of January (Friday) at 6pm at St Margarets House!
Exhibition information:
Address: Gallery Two, St Margarets House, Gallery 2, 151 London Rd, Edinburgh EH7 6AE
THE grooming gangs scandal has raised fears among many parents and carers about the safety of children and young people.
Even as calls grow for a national enquiry, it appears unlikely new measures will be rolled out anytime soon to safeguard those at risk.
It means parents and carers will be increasingly concerned about the risks children may be left exposed to by groomers preying on the vulnerable.
With this in mind author, counsellor and wellbeing expert Lynn Crilly has issued advice around how to spot the signs of grooming.
Lynn says: “In a recent survey I did with my thousands Instagram followers 71% of people said they were worried about their children or grandchildren being groomed. These figures show that more needs to be done to raise awareness and educate people on the dark side of the online and real world.
“There are two types of grooming and each case is different, as is the time scale grooming can take place over.”
Outlining the different types of grooming, Lynn continued: “Grooming can take place in person but a groomer can be a total stranger or someone the victim already knows. It might be a family member, friend, or someone at a club they go to. The connection makes it easier and quicker to build up trust.
“Groomers are very good at disguising and being deceitful as to who they really are. They are good at hiding behind a keyboard, where they can take on any identity they desire, making it easier to befriend a child or young adult. The internet has a very dark side to it and this can be infiltrated in text messages, social media networks, emails, voice and video chats, forums, gaming, sadly the list is endless.
The groomers themselves are also very clever at manipulating the child or young person, so it can be really hard to detect and difficult to spot.”
Here, Lynn outlines the signs that might indicate that a child is being groomed:
Secretive behaviour: It could be a red flag if your child starts to become secretive about their online or offline activities. This also includes being protective of their devices including their phones.
Talks a lot about a specific older child or adult: Or they suddenly wants to spend more time with them, maybe meeting them alone.
Inappropriate knowledge: If a child displays knowledge or behaviour that is inappropriate for their age, such as sexualized language or understanding as this indicate exposure to adult situations
Avoidance of certain people: if a child is ill at ease around certain adults and is not keen to be in their company this should also be explored as to why they do.
Isolating themselves: If a child spends more time alone in their room, or declines invites to be with friends or family, becoming withdrawn and isolated.
Unexplained gifts: Unexplained gifts and presents appearing without any real explanations to where they have come from. They do not want to talk about where they have come from and openly lies about it.
Stop talking to their trusted adult: As the child withdraws from their normal safe, secure everyday life they will also start to not talk to their trusted adult, lie about where they have been and who with so making it harder for the adult to keep track of where they are.
Physical signs: Look for unexplained injuries or changes in physical appearance that may indicate abuse.
Lynn added: “There are many reasons a child or young person can change their behaviour, and in my experience, no one knows their young person better than their parent, grandparent, or a loving carer.
“So if you think something is amiss, then you are probably right. Please do not leave it, talk to your child and arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can so you can find the appropriate help and support your child or loved one.”
A photograph of Brazilian Surfer Gabriel Medina, which captures an incredible moment where athlete, spectacle and photographer come together in perfect harmony, has won this year’s World Sports Photography Awards.
The image was taken by Tahiti-based French Photographer Jerome Brouillet on the third day of the Surfing event at the 2024 Olympic Games in Teahupo’o, French Polynesia.
This image is one of 24 winning images across sports categories including American Football, Baseball, Equestrian, Golf, Racquet Sports and Football. More than 2200 professional sports photographers from over 96 countries around the world submitted more than 13000 images to this year’s competition.
The World Sports Photography Awards are the only global awards for sport photography. Entered by the world’s best sports photographers, judged by leading figures from sport, media, photography, brand and creative.
Designed to recognise and celebrates incredible sports images and the photographers who take them. World Sports Photography Awards tell compelling stories of the emotion, passion, athleticism and focus that are at the heart of sport.
Sophie Collins, Chief Marketing Officer at awards sponsor MPB, said: “As a judge and sponsor of the World Sports Photography Awards, I am once again inspired by the extraordinary talent and creativity showcased in this year’s entries.
“Sports photography holds a unique power to freeze dynamic action and evoke profound emotion in a single frame, capturing stories that transcend the boundaries of the playing field. It’s been thrilling to see the innovation and passion from this year’s participants, setting a remarkable standard for the years to come.”
The full gallery of winning images including Top 10s in every sporting category are available to view on the World Sports Photography Awards website.
