Crowdfunder update: Community support for Wild Wings of Hope

I wanted to share a small but meaningful update from Wild Wings of Hope.

Alongside the main project — which is primarily supported by Creative Scotland — I invited friends, family, and members of the Edinburgh community to take part in a Crowdfund campaign.

The intention was to open up a way for others to contribute and connect to the project’s mission.

It’s been a reminder of the power of community and connection — which is really what this project is all about.

I launched the Crowdfunder on the very same day Wild Wings of Hope opened publicly at the National Museum of Scotland — so it was quite the whirlwind.

On launch day, amidst the bustle of the workshops, I took a moment to quickly check my phone to see how the Crowdfunder was doing. To my surprise and delight, we had already reached halfway within the first day.

Components of a barn swallow papercut kit

I feel overwhelmed by the generosity and belief of people in this project, who have chosen to support it not just financially, but also emotionally — through shared messages and encouragement on the Crowdfunder platform.

What this experience has offered is reassurance — that this work is held not only by institutions, but by individuals who believe in its intention. That shared care matters, especially for a project rooted in ecology, migration, and connection across distance.

Overhead view of artist Ed Harrison in the studio assembling papercut barn swallows.

Now that the Crowdfunder is closed, I’m beginning the next phase: preparing and sending the thank-you artworks and rewards, which includes:

Gathering addresses
Printing postcards and greeting cards
Cutting papercut pieces
Organising packaging and postage.

Three framed prints of barn swallows and swifts.

A selection of colourful postcards and stickers arranged on a table.

I’m planning to send these out during a quieter window in the New Year, once things feel a little more settled.

Thank you to everyone who chose to be part of this in whatever way they could. Your support has been felt, and it continues to shape how the project unfolds.

Wild Wings of Hope is primarily supported by Creative Scotland, with additional community contributions helping to extend participation and engagement.