Make-up is dissident. It claims control over identity. It rewrites...
Rediscovering Glasgow: Rachel Lamb’s Intimate Portrait of Home Through the Lens of Creativity and Community
Read time 5 minutes
Photography by Rachel Lamb
In the vast expanse of the fashion industry, where trends fade as quickly as they emerge, there exists a serene oasis—a project known as MUD.
Since its inception in 2018, stylist Georgia Pendlebury and photographer Arnaud Lajeunie have cultivated this sanctuary, immersing themselves in a sensual exploration of imagery that transcends the frenetic pace of fashion. Amidst this whirlwind of innovation and creativity, another creative force emerges—a Scottish photographer named Rachel Lamb, whose debut book, “Glasgow,” serves as a poignant homecoming.
For Lamb, the journey back to Glasgow was more than a mere physical return; it was a soulful rediscovery of her roots. After a decade spent flitting between the bustling metropolises of London and Paris, she felt the inexorable tug of nostalgia pulling her back to the city she once called home. Inspired by a commission from Public Edition magazine in 2018, Lamb embarked on a deeply personal project—to capture the essence of Glasgow through the lens of its creative inhabitants.
Photography by Rachel Lamb
The result is a captivating series of portraits that offer a glimpse into Glasgow’s vibrant artistic community—a celebration of its spirit and resilience. Over the course of three years, Lamb ventured into the homes of 21 Glaswegian creatives, each image a testament to the city’s diversity and vitality. From family to friends and friends of friends, her subjects are portrayed with a raw authenticity, framed by the intimate settings of their own living spaces.
In Lamb’s practice, authenticity reigns supreme—a quality she cultivates through trust and connection with her subjects. Each portrait is born from a day spent building rapport, a shared moment of vulnerability and understanding. Despite her background in fashion photography, Lamb’s approach remains grounded in documentary storytelling, capturing moments of quiet introspection and unguarded emotion.
Photography by Rachel Lamb
Yet, “Glasgow” is more than just a personal pilgrimage—it’s a love letter to the city and its creative energy. Through her lens, Lamb hopes to showcase Glasgow’s vibrant artistic landscape to the wider world, challenging the notion that creativity is confined to metropolitan hubs like London. In a gesture of gratitude to the community that welcomed her with open arms, Lamb has pledged to donate all proceeds from the book to local arts and housing organizations, a testament to the generosity and warmth of the Glaswegian spirit.
As readers immerse themselves in the pages of “Glasgow,” they are reminded that home is not merely a physical place, but a feeling—an essence that transcends borders and boundaries. Through Lamb’s lens, we are invited to explore the multifaceted nature of belonging, to discover that home can be found in the unlikeliest of places—a fleeting moment, a shared memory, a sense of connection.
“Through my lens, I hope to share the spirit of Glasgow—the resilience, creativity, and sense of community that make it truly unique.” – Rachel Lamb
With “Glasgow,” Rachel Lamb has crafted more than just a photographic collection; she has created a narrative of identity, memory, and belonging—a testament to the enduring power of art to illuminate the human experience. As the book finds its way into the hands of readers around the world, may it serve as a reminder of the beauty and resilience of Glasgow and its people, and inspire others to embark on their own journeys of rediscovery and self-exploration.
As Lamb’s photographs grace the pages of “Glasgow,” they invite us to pause and reflect on the meaning of home, to contemplate the intricate web of memories and emotions that define our sense of place. Each image is a window into a different world, a glimpse of lives lived and stories untold. Through Lamb’s lens, we bear witness to the rich tapestry of human experience, finding beauty in the everyday moments that shape our lives.
Photography by Rachel Lamb
Photography by Rachel Lamb
Amidst the bustling streets of Glasgow, Rachel Lamb’s lens acts as a quiet observer, capturing the essence of everyday life with an unparalleled intimacy. Each photograph tells a story—a narrative woven from the fabric of the city itself, rich in history, culture, and tradition. From the cobblestone alleys of the Merchant City to the grandeur of George Square, Lamb’s images offer a kaleidoscopic view of Glasgow’s urban landscape, inviting viewers to explore its myriad layers and hidden corners.
At the heart of Lamb’s work lies a deep reverence for her subjects—a genuine curiosity and appreciation for the individuals who call Glasgow home. Through her lens, she seeks to illuminate the beauty and resilience of the city’s creative community, celebrating the diversity of voices and perspectives that make Glasgow truly unique. Whether capturing a fleeting moment of laughter shared between friends or the quiet contemplation of an artist at work, Lamb’s photographs serve as a testament to the human spirit—a reminder of the power of art to inspire, uplift, and unite us all.
As we immerse ourselves in Lamb’s world, we are transported to a place where time seems to stand still—a sanctuary of creativity and expression amidst the chaos of modern life. Through her lens, Glasgow becomes more than just a city; it becomes a living, breathing entity—a character in its own right, with stories to tell and secrets to share. Each photograph is a window into a different world, a testament to the rich tapestry of experiences that shape our collective identity.
Posted
May 5, 2022
August 9, 2018
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Melodic Mastermind: Aime Simone’s Dynamic Influence Reshaping the Music Scene
Read time 2 minutes
Posted
July 1, 2023
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
Oh Glory is out now on Because Music.
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