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Each year on 3 April, Independent Artist Day™ recognises the outstanding work and influence of independent artists across the globe. At STEP, we’re taking the opportunity to spotlight three exceptionally talented artists based right here at Stirling Enterprise Park. Together, they exemplify the power of independent artistry to enrich, challenge and inspire our communities.
From abstract expression to breathtaking landscapes and emotionally driven pieces, these artists embody the power of creative freedom and the importance of diverse artistic voices in Scotland’s cultural fabric.
Calum Stevenson
Born in Falkirk, Calum Stevenson is a celebrated Scottish painter whose striking portraiture has gained national and international acclaim. A graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and the Glasgow School of Art, Calum made history in 2021 by becoming the youngest and first-ever Scottish winner of Sky Portrait Artist of the Year. His commissioned portrait of violinist Nicola Benedetti is now part of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery’s permanent collection.
Calum’s work—featured in prestigious exhibitions including the National Portrait Gallery in London, the Royal Scottish Academy, and multiple solo shows across the country—seamlessly blends technical precision with emotional depth. His paintings are held in public and private collections, including Glasgow City Chambers, Surrey County Cricket Club’s Kia Oval, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.
Reflecting on his creative base, Calum said: “Stirling Enterprise Park offers the kind of uninterrupted, dedicated space I need to work on larger-scale pieces. It’s a peaceful, flexible environment that allows me to focus fully on my painting practice while remaining well connected to both central Scotland and wider networks.”
More at www.calumstevenson.co.uk
Morag Lloyds
Morag Lloyds is a painter and textile artist living and working near the edge of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Her atmospheric seascapes and rural scenes are deeply inspired by her time spent in years gone by sailing the west coast of Scotland and exploring the islands of Argyll and beyond. New work is inspired by fables, myths and legends.
With over 30 years of experience, her work is grounded in a profound love for nature, ancestry, history and the quiet magic of the Scottish landscape.
Exhibiting widely across the UK, including past exhibitions at the R.S.W Morag’s work is also in collections in Canada, U.S.A, Spain, Australia, France, Denmark, Holland and Germany by those who resonate with its powerful sense of place and peace.
In addition to her painting, Morag is also a passionate textile artist. Morag was recently awarded a grant to develop her work with textiles further and this work is currently taking central focus as she is putting together a large collection of work. Combining antique textiles, felted fabrics and vintage finds, she creates intricate, one-of-a-kind hand-sewn pieces that give forgotten items new life. Wall art and small jewellery collections are being developed. A new website full of textiles and shop will be coming next month to www.moraglloyds.com
Morag shares: “This is a place where creativity is nurtured. Stirling Enterprise Park gives me the time, and headspace I need to create—and that space and peace is needed more than ever.”
More at moraglloyds-art on Instagram
Coming soon www.moraglloyds.com in May
Peter Russell
Peter Russell is a painter and teacher based in Stirling whose expressive, figurative work explores themes of identity, politics, and the human experience. Born in Portsmouth in 1948, he balances studio practice with community teaching, bringing a sense of openness and accessibility to his creative approach.
Peter’s career spans decades and borders. His early solo exhibitions across central Scotland were followed by the creation of Hanging Together, a collaborative artist collective dedicated to socially engaged art. A long-standing professional member of the Scottish Society of Artists, Peter has exhibited widely across Europe, with a particularly strong connection to Germany and Poland.
In 1990, Peter made a lasting impact on the international art scene by painting Himmel und Sucher (Sky and Seeker) on the Berlin Wall, merging symbolism, satire, and commentary on consumerism. He also collaborated with British artist Margaret Hunter on the mural Hands, blending his love of geometry with socially resonant imagery.
At Stirling Enterprise Park, Peter finds the space to continue developing his art and supporting others through teaching. “This is a space where creativity, community, and reflection meet. I’m able to work freely while staying connected to what matters—sharing art and ideas with others.”
These artists are just one example of the diverse and dynamic community that thrives at Stirling Enterprise Park. From creatives and makers to digital businesses, start-ups and social enterprises, the Park is home to a wide variety of entrepreneurs who are building ideas, growing businesses and shaping culture in their own unique ways.
Laura Melville, Director of Property and Operations at STEP, said: “Independent artists bring depth and vitality to our spaces. They challenge us, inspire us, and invite us to see the world differently. We’re incredibly proud to support artists like Calum Stevenson, Morag Llloyds and Peter Russell at Stirling Enterprise Park – their creativity adds so much to our community.”
Independent Artist Day™ is a timely reminder to support, champion and celebrate the creative minds shaping our culture—today and every day.
Laura Melville, Director of Property and Operations at STEP, said: “Independent artists bring depth and vitality to our spaces. They challenge us, inspire us, and invite us to see the world differently. We’re incredibly proud to support artists like Calum, Morag, and Peter at Stirling Enterprise Park – their creativity adds so much to our community.”
On Independent Artist Day™, and every day, STEP celebrates the spirit of independence and innovation that drives artists and entrepreneurs alike.
