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Glasgow West End: Glasgow Film Festival, Aye Write!, Valentine’s Day and Creative Conversations

Without doubt this is my favourite time to be in Glasgow. The weather’s not the best for wandering in our parks, although, it’s bright and sunny today. However, there’s plenty for me to do indoors.

We’ve got some great festivals in town that people flock to the city for Celtic Connections, Glasgow Film Festival and Aye Write!

Celtic Connections got off to a super start. However, there’s time yet to get out and catch some fabulous gigs. We enjoyed the Alela Diane/Mick Flannery Gig in the fabulous Mackintosh Church. /

Both Aye Write and Glasgow Film Festival have announced their programmes – you will be hard pushed deciding what films and events you fancy.

Glasgow Film Festival 2018

I went along to the launch of the Film Festival Programme with Rachelle, who will be writing reviews for various films. The launch was great fun with Lianna, Ruth, Katie and Directors, Allison Gardner and Allan Hunter, in very upbeat mode. Little wonder, each year the festival attracts many world, European and Scottish premieres and this year’s festival is looking fabulous. Tickets now on sale on their website:  Glasgow Film Festival

Aye Write! 2018

Glasgow’s book festival also set to lure folks out of their comfy armchairs and away from the telly with a mix of new writing talent and internationally acclaimed authors. Among my favourite events are ‘ –  ‘the books that make me’ this year sharing their influences will be Aamer Anwar, Scotland’s Makar Jackie Kay and Dr Adele Patrick. It’s always exciting being introduced to new authors and their debut books, including Louise Welsh introducing Laura Carlin and Imogen Hermes Gowar

The Aye Tunes music line up sounds spectacular and includes the lead singer of Suede Brett Anderson, Peggy Seeger – the woman who inspired the iconic song The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face and Stuart Cosgrove exploring the music of Memphis in 1968.

There really is something for everyone, including kids at the Wee Write events. I can hardly believe that our own project Ten Writers Telling Lies is part of this years festival.

Ten Writers Telling Lies

Last year we had a brilliant year with our book and cd and performing a range of festivals and in some great venues. We are really looking forward to being part of Aye Write and particularly pleased that the event will be hosted by Alistair Braidwood of Scots Whay Hae! 

We have an event coming up this week-end at the Further From Festival  in Linlithgow (Saturday 3 February). We’re also delighted to be invited to perform at University of Glasgow and M.Litt graduates who are part of Ten Writers Telling Lies will have an opportunity to discuss self-publishing and editing with current students.

See other Books, Spoken Word and Poetry Events 

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’ Day is on the horizon and if you’re looking for special gifts and cards there’s ample choice from Glasgow West End’s independent shops, artisans and designers, including:

Nancy Smillie Shop, Spirito Gifts,  Stevenson Jewellers,  Janet and John Scottish crafters and designers, Blair and Sheridan and Shona Jewellery  Nancy Smillie Jewellery Studio 

And why not give yourself a little treat and snap up some of the great bargains you will find, in store at The Store Interiors? 

If you’re after a new look – check out the stylish, up to the minute spectacles at Currie and Quirk. The opticians offer a home visit service to make life easier for the elderly or infirm. On site tests for employees an also be arranged.

Dining Out in Glasgow West End

Dining out for Valentines Day, another celebration or for a special treat you can’t beat Mother India.  Try the invariably delectable food at Eusebi Valentine Menu .Leiper’s Attic at Cottiers  has a fabulous pre-theatre menu or why not try one of the new arrivals? The Square,  new kid on the block in Broomhill or another newish arrival La Lanterna at Kelvinbridge.

Creative Conversations

Enjoy your best lunchtime ever, bring your sandwich to the gorgeous University of Glasgow Chapel, 1 p.m. Mondays and catch some fabulous writers talk about their work.

Denise Mina at Creative Conversations  Monday 5 February 
See also Vahni Capildeo at Creative Conversations review by Pat Byrne 

What’s New

I’ve got a shop online now selling my crochet hats, all unique and handmade. You will also find some of Jim’s creations including prints and cushions. Please pop on and have a look.

For regular updates on Glasgow West End See also What’s New,What’s On

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