Samantha Gray

Samantha grew up in Orkney, moved to the mainland in 2000, then returned to her hometown in 2017. She became a mature student in 2014 studying Art & Design at Forth Valley College, Stirling, and completed her Fine Art Honours Degree at Orkney College in 2019. Samantha then went on to complete a Masters module in Art & Archaeology, as she is hugely inspired by the archaeology in Orkney, namely the Neolithic sites at Brodgar, Stenness. She is fascinated by these prehistoric sites, the lines they make within the landscape, the natural elements, and the feelings that they invoke.

In her creative process Samantha makes her own papers incorporating natural materials, including the Ness of Brodgar spoil heap dirt, some of which become artworks in themselves. Others she prints onto, using lino-cut, monoprint and collagraph printmaking techniques. Her handmade papers give a textured, organic feel and look to her pieces, which complements her subject. Samantha also enjoy experimenting with different printmaking techniques, collage, and mixed media. She is currently working in Kirkwall as an Artist, Creative Workshop Tutor and Reiki Practitioner.

Explore more of Samantha’s work on her website and Instagram.