Alasdair Watson’s “5 Things I Am Thinking About” Explored

Alasdair Watson, a Scottish photographer and multidisciplinary artist, posted a short essay titled “5 Things I Am Thinking About” in August 2010, reflecting on his current preoccupations and writing habits [4]. The piece is part of a loosely‑structured series where creators share the topics occupying their minds at a given moment.

Key takeaways

• The essay lists “Cognitive surplus” as the first item, referencing Clay Shirky’s work [4].
• Watson admits he writes only briefly because he doubts a broad audience will share his niche interests [4].
• He considers making the “5 things” format a regular, possibly monthly, feature [4].

From Photography to Written Thought

Watson’s primary reputation rests on his photography, which he describes as a way to connect communities and tell shared histories, working in both analogue and digital media [2]. His personal practice involves traveling across Scotland with analogue cameras, documenting the stories of places and people he meets [2]. Beyond images, he also writes in English and Scots, creates audio soundscapes, and engages in drawing, painting, and sculpture whenever possible [2]. This multidisciplinary approach informs the tone of his brief essay, where he blends a candid self‑assessment with intellectual curiosity.

The Essay’s Core Themes

In the “5 Things I Am Thinking About” post, Watson begins by noting that many clever writers publish similar lists, but he feels “not that clever” and constrained by time [4]. He openly acknowledges that each topic may only attract a handful of readers, which leads him to keep the entries concise rather than fully developed [4]. The first listed thought, “Cognitive surplus,” references Clay Shirky’s book on how digital connectivity creates excess capacity for creative collaboration [4]. Although the essay truncates after the opening line, Watson hints at expanding the series to a monthly cadence, suggesting a desire for ongoing reflection despite his self‑described limitations [4].

Why it matters

Watson’s brief essay illustrates the intersection of his visual storytelling and reflective writing, offering insight into how a creator balances public output with personal contemplation. By acknowledging the niche appeal of his topics, he underscores a broader challenge for artists who aim to engage diverse audiences while staying true to their interests. As Watson continues to produce photography, community projects, and occasional written pieces, his “5 Things” format may become a recurring window into the evolving concerns of a multidisciplinary practitioner.