Dear Library: In-Conversation

Originally commissioned by The Common Guild for anywhere in the universe and first presented during EAF in Leith, this work forms part of Choudhry’s ongoing Lost Lighting series. Combining Andrew Carnegie’s iconic flaming torch motif with the words of African-American civil rights activist Ella Baker, the piece speaks to collective strength, resilience, and the guiding power of knowledge and solidarity.

This unveiling coincides with 'Dear Library', a new exhibition marking the centenary of the National Library of Scotland. To mark the occasion, artist Rabiya Choudhry will be joined in conversation by Chloe Reith (The Common Guild), Martha Burns (National Library of Scotland), and Eleanor Edmondson (Edinburgh Art Festival) to reflect on the role of libraries as spaces of care, culture, resistance, and imagination.

The permanent installation has been made possible with the generous support of City of Edinburgh Council Libraries and now forms part of Edinburgh Art Festival’s permanent commissions collection.

This event is part of Edinburgh Art Festival 2025.

Image credit: Rabiya Choudhry, ‘Give light and people will find the way (Ella Baker)’ (2022) installation view Dennistoun Library, 2023. Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Isobel Lutz-Smith

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