Teenage Flicks - A solo exhibition by Jon Bishop at Made in Stirling

As a founder member of Perthshire Artisans, Jon Bishop (aka The Grey Earl) brings an extraordinary mix of talent, creative expertise, and gentle humour to everything he does. We’re excited to see his solo exhibition, Teenage Flicks, opening at Made in Stirling on Friday 5 June. The exhibition features a collection of illustrated works inspired by the films and television series that have shaped Jon’s creative journey over the years. Teenage Flicks runs until Sunday 26 July.

Jon's work Inspired by Mackenzie Crook's recently aired comedy drama Small Prophets, a British television comedy drama on BBC iPlayer.

Jon's illustrated works in Teenage Flicks include cult classics from his teenage years such as Alien to recently acclaimed BBC comedy-drama Small Prophets. The exhibition explores the characters, genres and storytelling traditions that have influenced his work.

Featuring chest-bursting aliens, dysfunctional families and ten-pin ball-wielding slackers, the

exhibition offers a vivid and playful exploration of screen culture through illustration.

“It’s been a real joy to revisit the films and TV shows I’ve loved over the years and, hopefully, add

something new to them through this collection,” says Jon. “It’s also been a chance to reflect

on the styles, themes and genres that have shaped my work, and to celebrate the characters and

stories that have stayed with me.”

Jon began exploring film through illustration over a decade ago, initially creating greeting card

collections that are now sold across the UK. His Scottish-themed reinterpretation of Star Wars,

Stars Are Braw, proved especially popular, combining humour with Scots dialect.

This exhibition marks a shift in approach. "Teenage Flicks has been an opportunity to think more

from a design perspective,” Jon explains, “and to step away, at least temporarily, from the humour my cards are known for.”

Inspired by Wes Anderson's film The Tenenbaums as featuring in Jon Bishop's solo exhibition Teenage Flicks at Made in Stirling

Inspired by Channel 4's comedy drama series The Change written by Bridget Christie as featuring in Jon Bishop's solo exhibition Teenage Flicks at Made in Stirling

“Like most artists today, I think it’s important to stay open to different ways of working. I’ve been lucky to explore a range of creative avenues, and this project has been a particular joy, plus a great excuse to revisit some favourite films, all in the name of research of course!”

Developed in collaboration with Made in Stirling, the exhibition aims to engage local audiences and visitors alike.

“I’m a big fan of the creative programme at Made in Stirling and the work they do to enrich the city’s cultural landscape,” Jon says.

“Alongside the exhibition, we’re putting together a series of film screenings and talks running into the summer holidays, creating something families and

film lovers can enjoy together.”

With original drawings, prints and 3D pieces on display, Teenage Flicks invites audiences to revisit

the films that shaped them and discover the stories that inspired the artist.

The Opening Night for Teenage Flicks is on Friday 5 June, 6–9pm and anyone is welcome. The Exhibition Dates are 5 June – 26 July, open daily from 10am -5pm.

You can read more about Jon's practice on his profile page, which in turn has links to his own website.

Jon has exhibited widely, including at the National Museum in Edinburgh, and has worked

with clients such as the BBC, Sainsburys, Glasgow Museums, Stirling University, Perth Art Gallery

and Wildhood Festival. He has created illustrated works for theatre and has performed at

Battersea Arts Centre (London), Platform, Tramway (Glasgow), Summerhall and Traverse Theatre (Edinburgh).

Made in Stirling is located at 44 King Street, Stirling, Scotland, FK8 1AY, open from 10am to 5pm.

Photo Credits: Dave Hunt