Made in Scotland: Moy Mackay
We’re publishing our December Made in Scotland Blog early to give you time to get any holiday presents ordered in plenty of time – you’re welcome! Back in July we chatted to Jules from Rudi and Co who named Moy Mackay’s felted paintings as one of her favourite Scottish makers. We loved Moy’s colourful and textured fibre paintings and wanted to learn more so we got in touch to find out more about her amazing designs. Read on to find out more and make sure to check out her website too!
Can you tell us how your business got started?
I became self-employed straight from art school. I had always been pretty self-sufficient working jobs whilst at school so that was a natural progression, I guess. My gallery happened quite by chance. It was never really my intention however it seemed to just happen. Someone I knew who had the property before me kept telling me I should take it over as a gallery after he left…and eventually I did. That was 12 years ago.
Where do you look for inspiration when you are designing new products?
All my work it inspired by my surroundings. I find beauty in almost everything but especially the stunning landscapes I am surrounded by living in the Tweed Valley in the Scottish Borders. When I can I take myself to the West Coast to soak up some wilder inspiration which I just love.
Can you tell us a bit more about how you make your products?
I make artworks but instead of using paint as my medium I use merino fibres. I build up layers of coloured fibres as I would if using paint. Once I am happy with the composition the piece is then covered with mesh and rubbed together with soapy hot water which matts the fibres together. It’s like magic really…or just like putting a wool jumper in too hot a wash. The friction and soap bind the fibres together. I then work into this further with free motion machine stitch for further definition and detail. The finished works are framed behind glass as you would a painting. Its only on closer inspection that it becomes apparent that it is felted fibres and stitch and not paint.
What are your most popular products and which are your own favourites?
My original artworks are my most popular creations however I do have a collection of products digitally printed and produced from my original artworks. They include some home furnishing items like lamps, mugs, water bottles, cushions, and throws. I also have a collection of limited editions Giclee prints, calendars and cards from some of my favourite originals.
If you had to pick one place in Scotland to recommend that people visit, where would it be?
Well I think the Scottish Borders is pretty stunning. You don’t have to drive far to see some spectacular scenery. Not far from where I am you can visit Traquair, St. Mary’s Loch, The Grey Mares Tail, Tallah, the Ettrick Valley to name but a few.
Which other Scottish Makers do you love to recommend?
Ooh that’s difficult to pick : I do love Julia Linstead Glass. She is based at The Hirsel in Coldstream.
Made in Scotland: Julia Linstead Glass
Thanks so much to Moy for taking the time to chat with us about her delightful and colourful designs! Make sure to check out her Website, Facebook and Instagram to find out more and get shopping for all the occasions you have coming up!