July 2026

Name: Joanne Boyle

How did your creative journey start?

I was always drawing as a child, and my interest in photography developed after receiving my first camera from my grandfather at about 7 years old. He was a keen photographer and had his very own darkroom tucked away in his loft. I continued with photography and trained at Glasgow School of Art, studying a BA (Hons) in Visual Communication, covering graphics, illustration and photography. I quickly got drawn into the photography department and started specialising earlier than we were supposed to. I have since further developed my interests in surface pattern design, clay and lino printing. I’m the equivalent of a magpie when it comes to different shiny art mediums available out there. 

Can you explain your creative process? How has it changed over time?

I generally start by taking in my environment while out walking my dogs. I take quick snaps of the things around me and then go on to sketching up my ideas. It could be a photography project looking at light, or elements that I feel might be the beginnings of a motif for pattern work. I realised that the vast majority of my photography work has been commercial: for personal branding, products, horse and owner photography, or portraits over the years. Not so much art-based, and for me. That realisation saddened me, to be honest, and has pushed me into rediscovering what brings me ‘Joy’. I am exploring what ticks my boxes most. I don’t describe myself now as ‘only’ a photographer; I’m more of a visual artist.

Who influences you? Which other creatives’ work do you love?

I enjoy looking at all art types, and I appreciate the various elements within them. I have to admit I love The Great Pottery Throw Down just now, and I am blown away by how creative the contestants are. And who doesn’t love Keith Brymer Jones? I love colour and pattern and I am exploring more of this just now. 

What advice would you give creatives who are just starting out?

Find something that lights you up and just go for it! Speak with other creatives who are further along in their journey and learn from them.

What can visitors expect when visiting your space during Falkirk Open Studios?

I will be sharing my work from Falkirk Delivers office on the High Street, I will have some of my homeware and giftware with my surface pattern designs, including tea towels, tote bags, cushions and notebooks. I will also have some lino prints and other surprise pieces for you to browse. I can’t wait to meet you all.