
Govanhill artists welcome u-turn on Creative Scotland funding, but vow to continue to fight
Govanhill artists joined the unions in their continued fight for arts funding despite a recent government u-turn on cuts announced last month. Though funding has been reinstated, the arts community remains concerned about future uncertainties, especially on the impact cuts would have on working-class communities. Protesters called for a progressive tax system in the broader fight to preserve public funding, not just for the arts and culture sector.
Victoria Bar unveils 'The Best Fans in the World' painting
The Victoria Bar, one of 21 sites part of the Football Square Mile (FSM), has recently become home to a painting by Ashley Rawson, depicting two Tartan Army fans, clad in Scotland’s signature colours. The work entitled, ‘The Best Fans in the World’, is a homage to the Tartan Armies' celebration of the Euros.
From the margins to the mainstream: How Arkbound is empowering new voices
Arkbound’s innovative workshop series, 'Our Economy', is opening doors for typically marginalised communities to engage in economic discussions through creative writing. This unique approach is not just about learning but about fostering change and amplifying voices that are often unheard.
Reviewing Citizen Miko – Screened as part of CineRoma 2.0
Last week, CineRoma 2.0 brought powerful narratives to the forefront as the UK’s only Roma Film Festival returned for its second year. Curated by young Roma from Govanhill, this year’s selection delved into themes of self-perception, identity, and resistance.
How Pakistani Honey Mangoes Mark the Start of Summer
The arrival of the pop-up honey mango stalls around Govanhill and Pollokshields has come to mark the beginning of summer in the neighbourhood. During South Asian Heritage Month, Samar Jamal delves into the heritage of this popular fruit and what it means to South Asian communities across the Southside.
This is our legacy: Getting to know the shopkeepers around Govanhill
In Govanhill, the heart of the community beats through its vibrant local businesses. From bustling corner shops to long-standing family-run stores, these shopkeepers not only provide essential services but also preserve the area's cultural heritage. In this article, we delve into the stories of Govanhill's shopkeepers, uncovering the histories, challenges, and triumphs that shape the daily life of this diverse and dynamic neighbourhood.
An interview with Peter Mohan, author of "Cheers, Govanhill!"
Peter Mohan, the voice behind the popular blog "Cheers, Govanhill!", shares his journey to becoming a celebrated local writer, and insights into his views on the ever-changing landscape of Govanhill, as well as the inspiration behind his new book.
South Asian Heritage Month: ‘I had internalized this sense of halfness.’
South Asian Heritage Month is a celebration of South Asian identities and cultures. This year’s theme, ‘Free to Be Me,’ prompted Sofia to reflect on her own complex sense of identity. Sofia shares her experience of growing up in Glasgow's South Asian community, struggling with her mixed-race background and the challenges of fitting into Scottish and Asian cultures.
Festival of Social Action platforms young Roma activists
Young Roma activists co-curate a transformative Festival of Social Action at Scotland's first Roma Culture Centre, showcasing powerful stories and fostering community connections to inspire change. Including a screening of the film ‘(We Are Roma): This is our Home’ which explored the experiences, struggles, and aspirations of Roma youth in Glasgow through the lens of Lena Popikova, a young Roma woman and aspiring filmmaker who grew up in the city.
Yoruba Sonic — ‘a powerful tribute to the resilience and creativity of the African diaspora’
Yoruba Sonic was a vibrant and immersive event that beautifully blended academic research with rich cultural performances. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with a diverse mix of audio recordings, African dance, drumming, and live performances. The artists delivered captivating explorations of African knowledge systems and embodied cultural expressions. The event, supported by the University of Glasgow, offered a powerful tribute to the resilience and creativity of African and diaspora communities, making for an enriching and unforgettable experience. Here are some snapshots from the event.
Art on Your Doorstep: Unveiling Southside’s Creative Spaces During Glasgow International
The 10th iteration of Glasgow International commenced on June 7th and continues through Sunday, June 23rd, 2024. As customary, the festival unfolds across the city, encompassing Glasgow's Southside. Resident and photographer Laura reflects on her experience exploring three lively exhibitions at Tramway, Queen’s Park Glasshouse and Celine on Victoria Road.
‘Growing Pains for Museums’ On the destruction of art for activism
Co-curator, Sehar Mehmood, unpacks the complexities of working in the the museum sector, highlighting the political nature of the space, the challenges of representation, debates on activism and the need for museums to address social issues openly.
Discover the 10th Edition of Glasgow International: A Contemporary Art Festival
Glasgow International, Scotland’s biennial festival of contemporary art, this year celebrates its 10th edition. A must-see experience drawing artists and art lovers from around the world, it is also a brilliant opportunity for everyone and anyone to explore and experience the scene which gives Glasgow its global reputation for contemporary art.
Refugee Festival Scotland is back and everyone is invited
Refugee Festival Scotland has announced an exciting line-up of events sharing the stories of people and communities who have settled in Scotland. Including a whole host of events in Glasgow’s Southside, including Govanhill and the surrounding areas.
The Languages of Plants
“Plants seem to have a language of their own, with which they communicate to us their medicinal properties. In turn, humans have developed various ways of transmitting plant lore, knowledge and medicinal uses of herbs and other plants.” - Beti Scott, Movement in Thyme.
City of Empire: I See Your History
City of Empire is a new community-led exhibition at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum that uncovers Glasgow’s deep-rooted links to empire and slavery. Zara Grew met up with the exhibition's Community Curator to find out more.
Barrowland Ballet Presents Chunky Jewellery at Tramway
This new play delves into friendship, womanhood, and motherhood, weaving the creators’ personal experiences into a universal narrative. Premiering at Tramway on 9 March , it’s an exploration of life’s complexities, with special consideration of the complexities of being a woman.
মাতৃভাষা দিবস উদযাপন: গ্লাসগোকে আমাদের উপহার
এই অংশে, বাংলাদেশ অ্যাসোসিয়েশন গ্লাসগো, ভাষা-গ্লাসগোর ভাষা উৎসবের পেছনের দল, উৎসবের শিকড় সম্পর্কে আমাদের আরও জানায়। ভাষাগত বৈচিত্র্যের একটি প্রাণবন্ত উদযাপন, বাংলা সংরক্ষণের লড়াইয়ে অনুপ্রাণিত।
Our Gift to Glasgow: Celebrating Mother Language Day
In this piece, Bangladesh Association Glasgow, the team behind BHASHA – Glasgow's Language Festival, tells us more about the roots of the festival. A vibrant celebration of linguistic diversity, inspired by the fight for Bangla preservation.
FONDS: New multimedia exhibition at Tramway tells the stories of Govanhill through its most treasured objects
The objects treasured by people in Govanhill reveal stories of migration, transformation, love and resilience. A new photography exhibition, film and podcast will launch on 3 February.