Paisley Patterns

Contemporary Edinburgh artist Davy Macdonald presents a striking new collection of abstract, conceptual and fine art paintings in an exploration of the evolution and perpetuity of Paisley the place and Paisley the pattern.

The exhibition traces the enduring identity and global journey of the boteh form, from its Middle Eastern origins through its adoption and worldwide recognition as the Paisley pattern. It follows the pattern's industrialisation, when Paisley became the epicentre of a global shawl trade, producing millions of woven textiles on Jacquard looms, before continuing its evolution in the present day through inspiration drawn from Paisley's murals and graffiti-tagged walls.

Through abstraction and deconstruction, Macdonald reveals a motif whose enduring identity survives every reinvention, demonstrating how the Paisley pattern has continued to evolve across cultures and centuries. Its enduring appeal lies in its unique ability to change without ever losing its identity.