Own Art: iota: One Stop Shop for Art

‘iota’ stands for ‘i of the arts’. What does this mean and what is iota about?

The 'i' for iota is small, because ‘iota’ is a jot or a tiny piece. 'The arts,' conversely, encompass a lot, so 'iota' is a tiny piece of a very big picture (pardon the pun). Our aims are two-fold: to bring art and artists into view, and to encourage people to engage with the arts. Everyone benefits. There are numerous opportunities for recent graduates and established artists, but few for those in-between, so we offer work from right across the field. Many people could benefit from access to the arts, but feel remote from it. We bring an array of interesting work to the public as conveniently as any corner shop brings you milk.

Rather unusually for an art gallery, you’re actually graduates of the Mackintosh School of Architecture. What made you set up iota? 

When we studied at Glasgow School of Art there was a healthy exchange between the departments, with the language of aspiration common to all the arts. That was a very productive and stimulating environment which we took into practice, working across the arts throughout our careers: with George Wyllie on his Crystal Ship project; on furniture, stage production and curating exhibitions in Milan; on modern and historic buildings; furniture and minutely detailed interiors in the UK and abroad. We began Unlimited Studios to develop cross-sector interaction, and iota is the natural extension of that, presenting the resulting work to the public.

I’m looking to buy some new work, perhaps paintings or prints, to go on my walls. Is that something I could find at iota?

Definitely! Come and chat about it – we will show you a range of work by 'iota artists' – original paintings, sculptures, prints or limited editions, products and sometimes music and literature too. We can see what you like and advise according to your budget. We can source pieces or commission work, for private or commercial needs.

You show everything from wall-based exhibitions to more experimental performances. How do you choose what to exhibit?

Collaboration at Unlimited Studios brings a wealth of national and international connections. Word also spreads quickly about a new arts venue. It is important to us to show a range of different artists and media, work by professionals as well as work by people who have not had formal training. Sometimes that means taking risks, but it also provokes interesting discussion. For instance, at the Mitchell Library in January we are curating WITNESS by Robert McNeil MBE, which addresses the repercussions of war.

What have been your personal favourite works or exhibitions to date, and what are you planning for the future?

Choosing a favourite would be truly impossible, although everyone loved the larger-than-life crocheted sculptures by Rita McGurn in her Off the Hook exhibition. Our September show has great drawings by Norman O'Leary; October has the stunning Landscapes and Diversions by Brian Chambers. In November we have an intriguing installation MADamE B. and other works by Carmel O'Brien. Then there's the December Casinista show... Christmas covered!

You’re currently in discussion with Creative Scotland to become part of their Own Art scheme. What will this mean?

iota already makes small and medium-range work accessible, but with Own Art people can make an interest-free arrangement over a reasonable period of time, allowing them to enjoy a bigger investment in art than might otherwise be possible.