“Time for magic should be seen as a visual manifesto for a better world, an antidote to complacency and nihilism, a call to action and an instruction manual for the re-enchantment of the planet.”
Whether you were aware of it or not, you have seen Jamie Reid’s work. He began with creating protest graphics using “scalpel, glue and xerox machine” and continued onwards producing work for the Sex Pistols, Occupy, Pussy Riot and Extinction Rebellion. As well as this huge body of work for his local arts and political groups, he had collaborations with fashion designers. created graphics for The Access to The Stones campaign and made many images for Druid rituals. This is absolutely a wondrous and inspiring book. I must admit, though I knew of his work, like that with the Pistols and Pussy Riot, I did not know anything about the artist himself. When I found out his connections with Druidry; his great-uncle George Watson MacGregor Reid was the Chief Druid of the Druid Order since 1909 and that Jamie also celebrated the Wheel of the Year himself, I was very excited to dig into this book!
John Marchant provides a short history of Jamie himself; following his work, along with his connections to the arts, political and spiritual movements. I found it really fascinating and for me personally, I deeply resonate with that fusing of the political and the spiritual so integral to Jamie’s work. And as someone who holds Punk music, and DIY very dear, the aesthetic of Jamie's art also really appeals to me.
The main body of the book contains imagery Jamie originally created for a book he called ‘Eightfold Year’, and which has been expanded upon with various selections curated by Stephen Ellcock from Jamie’s incredible archive of work.
Philip Carr-Gomm, who was a good friend of Jamie's, writes the commentary throughout the Wheel of the Year. I read only the summer solstice one as I’ve decided to read each section as the year progresses. Unfortunately, Jamie passed away before this book was finished.
I have struggled to find the words to express what a lovely wonder this book is, and I find myself sorely lacking. It is truly an inspiring book, and anyone interested in Jamie’s art, or just in punk, DIY, political art, nature and Druidry may wish to pick up a copy. There are also some fascinating historical photos of George Watson MacGregor Reid, such as one at the gates of Stonehenge demanding entry without having to pay.
Thank you so much to Watkins for my copy!
Purchase from Watkins directly here (or you can get a copy on Amazon and possibly at your local book shop): https://watkinspublishing.com/books/time-for-magic-by-jamie-reid-stephen-ellcock-john-marchant-and-philip-carr-gomm/
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