Conversations With Beela Jack - The Last Hall Boy

• Photographer
  Pamela Hanlan
• Prize
  Silver in Editorial / Personality
• Socials

When we could return to Scotland we found Beela and asked him if he would like to be photographed so that I could tell his story.We first met him a few years ago when he was a guide at Dun Robin Castle.Reconnecting this year was definitely on our to do list.Beela was born in Golspie and went to the castle when he was 4 with his mother who worked there.He worked there himself when he was 15 and again as a hall boy. After the death of his wife and his retirement he returned as a guide.He was Dun Robin's,and possible Britain's,last hall boy. He says that the castle breaths life into him.I believe

• Biography
  I am a Fine Art photographer interested in storytelling, curiosity, and a lifelong desire to explore the world visually. After raising five children and living many roles—daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, widow, and partner—I discovered photography later in life. Nine years ago, my partner gave me my first camera, and in 2020 we transformed an old woodworking shop into my studio. Since then, I have dedicated myself to learning, experimenting, and creating work that reflects the stories I’ve carried for decades.
• Awards
  2026 - Glasgow Gallery of Photography Juried Exhibition (two separate selections) 2026 - Decagon Gallery Juried Online Exhibition, Contemporary Fine-Art Photography 2026 - Chelsea International Fine Art Competition Selected Artist Awards & Recognitions 2025 - PX3 Prix de la Photographie Paris Silver and Bronze Awards 2025 - Budapest International Foto Awards Silver Award 2026 - Der Greif Publication 2026 - Decagon Gallery RED Publication