Tell us why NT Art Month is a good thing? NT Art Month is an important and beneficial thing to have, creating a sense of community between local galleries and promoting local artists. It provides community engagement and a sense of belonging, celebrating differences and generating exposure. Allowing collaboration and networking among artists, galleries and art enthusiasts further enriches the Edinburgh art scene adding to the cultural landscape and creating a sense of identity and pride.

Can you sum up the ethos of your gallery? The Atelier Gallery was created to be original and contemporary whilst always respecting the art that adorns its wall. The gallery aims to encourage the creation and presentation of original art in a welcoming environment. We want to present original art that is created to be loved.

Easing the journey from studio, through framing and presentation, to gallery and then buyer, the artist is represented with a body of work so that viewers can be closer to the artist, their mindset, motivations, and inspiration. Showcasing a carefully selected group of established and emerging artists, many of whom are new to the Edinburgh art scene, Atelier presents art from a range of sources from well-known Scottish and British artists to those on the international stage. All art is original and we look forward to showing and hopefully giving further insight into the work and story behind the artist.

Is there a piece (or two) in your gallery which particularly reflects this ethos?

‘Fresh As A Daisy’ by Lex McFadyen and ‘ We feel that these selected pieces of work best reflect our gallery's ethos, demonstrating colour, texture and most importantly originality.

Is there another gallery in NT Art Month that you especially admire? Powderhall Bronze. They showcase a large variety of bronze sculptures cast in their own Edinburgh-based fine-art foundry, holding many works by highly acclaimed Scottish artists. They also strive for original artwork, from production to installation on-site. Paired with their in-house artisans and exceptional knowledge, they’re able to produce pieces of the highest quality.

What do you think makes the art scene in the New Town special? It plays an imperative role in the hub of Edinburgh’s cultural identity. The area is home to a variety of galleries and cultural institutions, nurturing and introducing a vibrant art scene, ultimately creating a creative community of art enthusiasts encompassing galleries, artists and spectators.

The Atelier Gallery, Howard Place, Edinburgh; NT Art Month runs from Friday 7–Sunday 30 June.