Diary of a compulsive creative: My Inspiring Visit to the Andy Goldsworthy Exhibition in Edinburgh

Claire Crawford
Nov 22
3 min read

Art has a unique way of pulling us out of our daily routines and inviting us to see the world through a different lens. Recently, I experienced this first-hand during a special trip to Edinburgh to visit the Andy Goldsworthy exhibition. Despite finding out about the exhibition just weeks before it closed, I knew I had to make the journey, traveling there and back in the same day. This visit reminded me of the importance of taking time to immerse yourself in something you love, especially when it connects deeply with your creative spirit.

Andy Goldsworthy’s work has fascinated me since my A-Level art studies. Known for his outdoor installations crafted from natural materials, seeing his work displayed inside a gallery was a rare and exciting opportunity. The exhibition did not disappoint. Walking among his pieces, I was able to appreciate the delicate details and thoughtful construction up close. This experience solidified my desire to bring more of the natural world into my own art.

Discovering Goldsworthy’s Art in a New Setting

Andy Goldsworthy’s art is usually experienced outdoors, where his creations interact with the environment, changing with the weather and seasons. Seeing his work inside a gallery was a fresh perspective. The controlled space allowed me to focus on the textures, shapes, and materials without distractions. It was like stepping into a quiet world where every stone, leaf, and twig had a story.

The exhibition featured a variety of his pieces, from a intricate reedmace arrangement to an Oak Passage way leading to a fern installation secured by thorns. Each work reflected his deep connection to nature and his skill in using simple materials to create something profound. The contrast between the natural elements and the gallery’s clean lines highlighted the beauty of his craftsmanship.

Andy Goldsworthy's Oak Passage National Galleries Scotland Edinburgh

The Importance of Immersing Yourself in What You Love

Making the trip to Edinburgh on such short notice was a reminder of how important it is to prioritise what fuels your passion. Life often gets busy, and it’s easy to put off experiences that inspire us. But taking time to fully immerse yourself in something you love can recharge your creativity and open new doors.

Andy Goldsworthy's Wall of Fern's National Galleries Scotland Edinburgh

Bringing Nature Into My Own Art

Goldsworthy’s work has always inspired me to explore the relationship between art and nature. After seeing the exhibition, I feel more motivated to experiment with incorporating natural elements into my creations. I have some ideas about how to do this, but for now, I’m enjoying the process of experimenting and discovering what works.

This experimentation phase is one of the most enjoyable parts of being an artist. It’s about translating the images in my head and my feelings into something tangible. Whether it’s using leaves, or other materials from the environment, or recreating the beautiful colours for a winters sunset the goal is to create pieces that invite others to see the beauty around them.

The Lasting Impact of the Exhibition

Visiting the Andy Goldsworthy exhibition was a powerful reminder of why I love art. It showed me how taking time to immerse yourself in something meaningful can spark new ideas and deepen your connection to your craft. The experience has left me eager to explore new directions and share my journey with others.

If you have a passion that inspires you, don’t hesitate to make time for it, even if it means a special trip or rearranging your schedule. These moments can fuel your creativity and bring fresh energy to your work.