In this episode, I sit down with Drew Markou from Vanilla Ink The Smiddy for a wide-ranging conversation about creativity, craftsmanship, and community in the north east of Scotland.

We explore the history of silversmithing and metalwork in Banff, how traditional skills are being preserved and reimagined for a modern audience, and the role organisations like Vanilla Ink The Smiddy play in supporting artists, makers, and local communities.

Drew also shares his personal journey — from lecturing at Birmingham City University to building a new life in rural Aberdeenshire — and reflects on why creative spaces matter, especially outside major cities.

We also discuss:

If you’re interested in creativity, craft, culture, rural communities, or the future of the arts in Scotland, this is a conversation worth hearing.

🎧 Listen now and let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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