SUE WILSON reflects on the lessons to be drawn for Scottish musicians from the Womex world music convention in Gateshead.

Fiddler AIDAN O’ROURKE is best known for his work with bands like Blazin’ Fiddles and The Unusual Suspects, as well as his own ambitious projects. He is one of four players nominated for instrumentalist of the year award at this year’s Scots Trad Music Awards.

GILES SUTHERLAND looks at the prospects for a new glass making studio in Tain set up by artists Brodie Nairn and Nicky Burns

JOHN ABERDEIN reflects on the thought of Kenneth White.

FIONA MACKENZIE reflects on the aftermath of a Gold Medal win at the Western Isles Mod

Jeweller JAIMIE MACDONALD from Strathpeffer in Ross-shire has been shortlisted for a new eco-prize to recognise creative work which promotes greener lifestyles

GEORGINA COBURN checks out the work on show at the 3D2D Craft & Design Fair in Inverness, and suggests that original craftwork may make the perfect Christmas gift.

MEG RODGER looks back on a busy summer of events in the Western Isles, and ahead to plans for more development of the local arts infrastructure.

The Celtic Colours International Festival in Cape Breton was one of the models for our own Blas Festival, and has achieved top ranking in the world of Celtic music. LINSAY MOWAT grabbed the chance to visit this celebrated event

GEORGE GUNN is a Caithness man born and bred, and the county is never far from the heart of his writing, whether in his poetry or in his theatre work. He began writing as a child, completed his first play for the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, and launched Grey Coast Theatre Company in Thurso in 1992. This is part two of George’s interview with KENNY MATHIESON