Originally created as a canvas study, this is the kind of work that would rarely leave the studio — often painted over, set aside, or occasionally bought by friends. This one, however, was kept and later selected for the Bluewaters exhibition in Dubai.

The work was initially inspired by the passing of Edinburgh artist Elph, whose influence and presence within the city’s creative culture left a lasting impression. Over time, however, the meaning of the piece began to shift.

Against the backdrop of recent headlines surrounding artificial intelligence and the growing debate around the pace of its development, the work has taken on a new relevance. What began as a personal response has evolved into something broader — a reflection on progress, technology, and perhaps the need to occasionally slow down and consider where we are heading.