Margaret Mitchell & Charles McGuigan share poignant insights into their photographic work for Strathcarron Hospice's 45th anniversary

In this talk, photographers Margaret Mitchell and Charles McGuigan will discuss their work and experiences as part of a powerful new photography exhibition celebrating 45 years of Strathcarron Hospice, offering a unique insight into the people, compassion and communities at the heart of hospice care.

Hear, in their own words, what the experience meant to them and how it has shaped their own views of Hospice care.

Strathcarron Stories is the first exhibition of its kind in the Hospice's history, brings together two Scottish photographers to explore what Strathcarron means to the thousands of people whose lives have been touched by its care over the past 45 years.

Looking back at the people, moments and communities that have shaped the Hospice since it opened in 1981, the exhibition will also look forward, inviting people to reflect on the future of hospice care and the role local communities will continue to play in supporting it.

Across 2026 - the Hospice's 45th anniversary year - award-winning photographer Margaret Mitchell and Charles McGuigan were each commissioned to make new bodies of work, reflecting on both the Hospice and the community around it.

Margaret Mitchell’s series, Of Stillness and Care, is made within the Hospice, where she reflects on the people and the objects through which care is shown and practised. Informed by her time speaking with staff, volunteers and patients, her images consider the compassion and humanity found in the Hospice every day.

Charles' collection, More Than a Building, looks beyond the Hospice walls to the communities across Forth Valley, Cumbernauld and Kilsyth, where more than 80% of Strathcarron's specialist care now takes place. His photographs celebrate the people, places and connections that demonstrate hospice care reaches far beyond the Hospice building.

With thanks to The Robertson Trust, Stirling Photography Festival and Creative Scotland for their generous support.

Visitors are encouraged to view the exhibition in the Tolbooth Gallery before the talk.

Hear video interviews linked to Strathcarron over the years featuring staff, volunteers, patients and family members sharing their own Strathcarron Stories, shown alongside the new photography collection.

Visitors are welcome to leave memories of loved ones who have been cared for by Strathcarron Hospice on the memory tree.

Description supplied by the event organiser.