Tranquillity and Ruin: Beyond Ruin

Beyond Ruin is an artist talk by photographer Shane Simmons, exploring his project Tranquillity and Ruin.

Through images and words, he reflects on grief, healing, and the restorative power of outdoor spaces. Participants will gain insight into photography as both creative practice and personal expression.

Embracing imperfection and chance, Shane finds beauty in unpredictability. His practice often blends photography with writing, offering thoughtful reflections on grief, mental health, and recovery.

Defined by curiosity, simplicity, and intuition, his work shows a deep respect for the stories that images can both convey and create.

About Shane

Shane Simmons is a Glasgow-based photographer and recent graduate of Glasgow Kelvin College, where he studied under photographer Simon Murphy.

His project Tranquillity and Ruin, a body of black-and-white landscapes made in Mugdock Country Park, will debut in a solo exhibition at Campsie Gallery in September 2025. The work explores themes of loss, grief, and ultimately healing, through creativity and a deep connection with outdoor spaces.

Mugdock Country Park, Campsie Gallery

Shane is exhibiting Tranquillity and Ruin from Friday 19th September – Saturday 4th October 2025 (10am to 4pm each day)

Campsie Gallery, Mugdock Country Park Visitor Centre, 9 Kisworn Pl, Craigend, Mugdock, Glasgow G62 8EL

Grounds are open and accessible all day every day. Free entry with car parks open 9am-6.30pm

What3words: treat.eternally.bronze

Campsie Gallery Mugdock G62 8EL

Get directions here.

Stirling Photography Festival is Scotland's only annual festival dedicated to the art of photography, offering a wide range of events and exhibitions throughout August and September. We are delighted to support Shane during and to promote his first solo exhibition and artist talk at Mugdock Country Park.

Founded on the principles of inspiring creativity, developing skills and building community, the festival is run by a team of passionate volunteers. Together we build a festival programme which showcases leading and emerging talent, in partnership with artists and creative institutions from across Scotland who share our values.

As a volunteer led community festival we aim to inspire creativity, develop skills and build community. All events are free to attend and so we rely on donations and sponsorship. Please see here how you can support the festival.

We thank all of our artists and partners for their ongoing support and sponsorship.