Shelagh Swanson
Artista escocés
Shelagh has completed a number of commissioned projects for public, private and commuity partners. Below are details of a selection of Public Art Commissions
"The Ripple Effect" – Installation at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Scotland
Commissioned in 2025 by NHS Grampian Charities, and in association with NHS Organ and Tissue Donation Committee, The Ripple Effect is a public art project exploring the far-reaching impact of organ and tissue donation. Inspired by the ripples created when a pebble is thrown into water, the work reflects how one family's selfless decision to donate can save up to nine lives, with the positive effects extending far beyond each recipient and into the wider community.
Workshops brought together secondary school pupils from 13 schools across Aberdeen and the surrounding areas, including Kemnay, Huntly, Inverurie, Peterhead and Stonehaven. Donor families were also invited to participate in dedicated workshops, contributing their perspectives to this shared creative vision.
The resulting installation comprises approximately 800 fused glass discs, displayed at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, alongside 13 accompanying installations in the participating schools. Together, these works celebrate the power of generosity, the connections between people, and the lasting ripple effect of organ and tissue donation.
"You are not the Darkness, You are the Light"
Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Abuse - Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museum

This sculpture was commissioned by Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums (Aberdeen City Council ) in memory of those lost to and survivors of domestic abuse. Displayed on the first floor of the gallery, the sculpture is visible both inside and outside the building, signifying Aberdeen Art Gallery's status as a Safe Space location, where victims can discreetly ask staff for help and be signposted towards professional support.
The commission was unveiled in January 2024 by Her Majesty Queen Camilla to mark the launch of the Safe Space initiative in Aberdeen.
Winter Gardens Community Mosaic - The David Welch Winter Gardens, Aberdeen

In 2017, Shelagh was commissioned by Aberdeen City Council as artist in residence at Duthie Park’s David Welch Winter Gardens, creating a permanent glass mosaic mural inspired by the plants and surroundings of the Japanese Garden.
The six-metre-long mural was developed through a collaborative process involving pupils from three local primary schools, members of Dementia Aware Aberdeen and the wider public. Through workshops and drop-in sessions, participants created individual fused glass leaves and tiles, which were incorporated into the final design.
The completed mural is a permanent feature of the Winter Gardens, bringing together the contributions of hundreds of participants in a shared artwork celebrating the gardens and the local community.






