Charlene Scott is University of Stirling’s new artist in residence

The East Lothian artist joins the Art Collection during its themed year of Topography.

exterior of building with steps in foreground
Much of the University's Art Collection is housed in the Pathfoot building.

The University of Stirling has appointed Charlene Scott as its artist in residence for the 2026-27 academic year.

Based in East Lothian, Charlene works primarily with botanical pigments to create works on paper and cloth that are notable for their economy in means and method.

Charlene joins the Art Collection during its themed year of topography, in which exhibitions will explore how artists have considered the study of the forms and features of land surfaces. Charlene will work with researchers to examine the ecology of the University campus to create works inspired by the campus and the research that is undertaken at Stirling.

Through her material-driven engagement with nature and the distillation of form, Charlene’s works are a contemporary observation of environment that draws on the traditions and techniques of natural dyers and bookbinders.

Woman looking at camera with leaves in background Charlene will work closely with University of Stirling researchers.

woman looking at camera with red background
Sarah Bromage
Head of Collections
Our annual artist in residence programme allows artists to immerse themselves in the life of the University and to create works responding to the experience of being at Stirling.

Perfect fit

Sarah Bromage, Head of Collections at the University of Stirling, said: “We are so pleased to be joined by Charlene as our artist in residence. Our annual artist in residence programme allows artists to immerse themselves in the life of the University and to create works responding to the experience of being at Stirling. Charlene’s creative practice involves the intimate observation of place by working with botanical colour and repetition through line, folds and pattern, which is a perfect fit for our year of topography.”

Charlene said: “I am delighted to be appointed the new artist in residence at Stirling and have the unique opportunity to be immersed in the expansive grounds of the campus and to work with colleagues at the University. I am excited for the year and to be developing my practice alongside such a vibrant community of art, plants, people and buildings.”

The internationally acclaimed Art Collection was recently named a Collection of National Significance by Museums Galleries Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, in recognition of its more than 800 paintings, prints and sculptures and other artworks.

Find out more about the Art Collection at www.artcol.stir.ac.uk

paper art close up Charlene Scott's Botanical Pigments on Cloth Mounted Paper. Photo by John McKenzie

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