New graphics business launches in South Uist with support from Business Gateway
A new creative business has opened in South Uist this month, producing high-quality greeting cards and giclée prints with a distinctive artistic twist.
Uist Graphics was founded by Frank Creighton and is now trading from newly secured premises in Daliburgh, South Uist. The business produces prints using a unique approach: digitally merging famous works of art with drypoint etchings of Scottish landmarks, including buildings and bridges. The result is a versatile range of made-to-order prints, that appeal to visitors and art buyers alike.
Photography, taken by Frank, also forms part of the offering. The business displayed work at events at the Church of Scotland and Eriskay Hall in the run-up to its full launch, giving the wider community an early look at what Uist Graphics has to offer.
In setting up the business, Frank worked with Business Gateway adviser, Theresa Irving, who provided one-to-one support and advice on his business plan and routes to funding. That support helped Frank move from concept to securing trading premises in a matter of months.
Frank also accessed grant funding from the Outer Hebrides Digital Support Scheme (OHDSS), funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by the Comhairle’s Business Gateway team. The funding allowed the business to purchase the digital equipment and tools essential to beginning production.
Frank Creighton, founder, Uist Graphics, said: “South Uist is a fantastic place to launch a creative business and we are thrilled to be open. We wanted to create something unique that shares the beauty of the islands, celebrates the best of Scotland, and creates local employment here too.
“Theresa has been a tremendous help, her experience and insight has given us the best possible foundation, and we look forward to continuing to work with Business Gateway as the business grows.’
Theresa Irving, Business Gateway adviser, said: ”It is fantastic to see a new creative business open in the Outer Hebrides. Uist Graphics is a further endorsement of the area’s growing creative scene, and Frank’s vision and drive have made this a genuinely exciting project to be part of. We look forward to supporting the next stages of the business.”
Uist Graphics also have a website in development which will go live as full production gets under way.