A Wee Bit of Bute, a Lot of Colour & a Head Full of Ideas! 💙
Hello! I'm Nicola Jones, an artist, designer and creative maker living on the beautiful Isle of Bute, Scotland.
Welcome to my colourful wee corner of the world!
I've been creating artwork, illustrations and gifts inspired by Bute for over two decades, and Bute Gifts has been part of that journey since 2000, when it began life as the original Studio Shop in Rothesay.
A lot has changed since then, but one thing hasn't — I still love making things!
Inspired by Island Life
Living on Bute means there's inspiration everywhere.
From Rothesay's colourful waterfront and the familiar streets of Port Bannatyne to the beaches, castles, gardens and beautiful scenery around the island, there's always something catching my eye.
And then there's the weather!
One minute we're enjoying glorious sunshine, the next we're wondering where the rain came from. But even the wildest Scottish skies have their own kind of beauty.
Over the years I've drawn, painted, photographed and digitally illustrated all sorts of familiar Bute places, creating my own colourful interpretations of the island I call home.
Some of those designs have become framed prints, while others have found their way onto mugs, bags, clothing, umbrellas, homeware and all sorts of gifts.
And there are still plenty more waiting to escape from my sketchbooks!
From the Studio Shop to Bute Gifts
Bute Gifts has grown and changed over the years, from its early days in Rothesay to a much bigger collection of original artwork and designs.
These days, much of the creative work happens behind the scenes, where I'm usually busy drawing, developing new ideas, revisiting old favourites or finding another project to add to the list.
There's a rather large archive of artwork built up over the years, and I'm gradually bringing more of it back into the spotlight.
Some designs are old favourites, others are brand new, and quite a few are getting a fresh lease of life.
It's all part of the fun!
Made with Love, Colour & a Wee Bit of Island Madness
I love creating things that make people smile.
Whether it's a colourful picture of a familiar Bute landmark, a quirky illustration, a bright handbag or a wee gift that reminds someone of home, I want my artwork to have personality.
Bute Gifts is a celebration of island life, happy memories, familiar places and original design.
And although Bute is at the heart of it all, I occasionally wander off into other Scottish subjects or whatever else takes my fancy!
That's the joy of being an artist. You never quite know what's coming next.
A Wee Bit of Bute, Wherever You Are
One of the nicest things about creating Bute artwork is knowing where it ends up.
A print on someone's wall, a mug in a kitchen, a bag travelling across the world or a little gift sent to someone who misses the island.
For some people, Bute is home. For others, it's a favourite holiday destination, a childhood memory or somewhere that will always have a special place in their heart.
I love the thought that my artwork helps keep those connections alive.
And if you've never visited Bute, perhaps it's time you came doon the watter and discovered our beautiful wee island for yourself!
Come In and Have a Look Around!
I'm always working on something, whether it's new collections, old artwork making a comeback or another wee adventure.
So have a look around Bute Gifts, explore the artwork, enjoy the colours and see what catches your eye.
Thanks for visiting and for supporting original artwork created here on the Isle of Bute.
With love from Bute,
Nicola 💙
Artist, designer and creator of Bute Gifts.
Original artwork. Colourful gifts. Unmistakably Bute.