A Pause, A Promise, and a Heartfelt Thanks

This past week has been an unexpected and difficult one. After releasing Spiorad Àird nam Murchan – Elemental V: Spirit, I encountered a handful of deeply offensive comments, some from people I had hoped would understand the work and its intention. A couple even came from voices within the very community that has inspired me for nearly a decade. I won’t pretend it didn’t hurt. It did. When you open your creative soul, when you share work born of love and belonging, it feels raw to be met with hostility for no reason at all.

As a creative, I’ve had to develop my own writing voice alongside an almost ten-year photographic response to Ardnamurchan. That process has been vulnerable, honest, and deeply personal. To feel attacked in that space, however few the voices, shook me more than I expected. And yet, the overwhelming support from friends, fellow creatives, photographers, and, most importantly, from the Ardnamurchan community itself has been humbling beyond words. Your messages reminded me why this work matters and why this place matters.

I’ve spent the week reflecting and regrouping. I realised that if I pushed ahead with part 21 now, my voice would carry frustration and hurt, tones that have no place in this series. The work deserves better. Ardnamurchan deserves better. My commitment to this project remains unbroken, but I need a little extra time to ensure my words are unclouded and true. This series is far too important to me, and to the spirit of the place, to let anything compromise its authenticity.

I also want to thank Murray Wilkie of Scotland’s Mountains for his timely and honest episode on dealing with trolls (watch here). His perspective helped me step back and see things clearly..... and reminded me that negativity never outweighs the good.


 

So, here’s the promise: Spiorad Àird nam Murchan – Part 21 will return next Sunday, 14th December at 8 PM. It will be written with the same care, love, and deep connection that has guided every piece before it.

To everyone who reached out, who offered kindness, encouragement, and solidarity..... thank you. Your words have meant more than I can say. This pause is not a retreat; it’s a breath, a moment to ensure the next chapter sings in the voice it deserves.

With heartfelt thanks,

Rob