FEB 17th, 2026
There exists an (un)holy trinity; capitalism, aggressive marketing on social media, and over-consumption, which leads to an acceleration in the effects of climate change. An internal battle many people face is exposure to these mixed messages – a manipulation to buy more – contradicting to a feed of news stories documenting our planets unravelling due to global warming. Artist EVE ALLEN talks about the impact this cognitive dissonance is having on us, and how she manages to sit with, working in this industry, knowing that there isn’t a straightforward solution.
WORDS, RACHEL BYRNE
Feb 17th, 2026
There exists an (un)holy trinity; capitalism, aggressive marketing on social media, and over-consumption, which leads to an acceleration in the effects of climate change. An internal battle many people face is exposure to these mixed messages – a manipulation to buy more – contradicting to a feed of news stories documenting our planets unravelling due to global warming. Artist EVE ALLEN talks about the impact this cognitive dissonance is having on us, and how she manages to sit with, working in this industry, knowing that there isn’t a straightforward solution.
WORDS, RACHEL BYRNE
I explore the trite, yet eternally relevant topic of ‘the avoidance of failure’, reflecting on my own experience, as well as the latent dangers present in making decisions that are led by fear of failure – both those conscious and unconscious. Words, Rachel Byrne.
We speak to hydrogeologist MARC ADDISON who reveals the increasing dependency of groundwater of our ever-growing human population. He explains why it is set to take place as the commodity of the future and proffers valuable life advice for those uncertain of their next step. Words, Rachel Byrne.
Exploring the idea that competition is a form of collaboration. Who you choose to compete with is important, as it is considerably influential to the rate at which you grow, and central to a richer development. Words, Rachel Byrne.
London native and editor at ROULEUR magazine, ANDY McGRATH, took some moments to converse with LAPORTRA, detailing his career beginnings with The Daily Peloton, to his obsession with making every issue of Rouleur perfect. Discover below his thoughts on the importance of truthful journalism in the present culture of fake news. Words, Rachel Byrne
Not all portrait studios are created equally; I observe the differences between poor and skilled portrait photography; educating you on how to discern between both and avoid paying for the bad. Words, Rachel Byrne.
Classical musician and soprano Alexandra Shrinivas boasts a repertoire of violin, clarinet and piano in her musical arsenal. Here, she ponders the art of appreciating where we are at every stage of our career and the unforeseen perils of perfecting one’s vocal technique. Words, Rachel Byrne.
More often we are being introduced to each other online rather than in-person; I look at how this affects first impressions, and explore why the professional portrait is a potentially powerful tool in light of this new digital age of online introductions. Words, Rachel Byrne
Born in Holland and grown up around the world, on account of his father’s diplomatic vocation, Jasper has lived South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, Thailand, before going on to study and settle in Scotland. In this short fire Q&A, I learn about Shadowbreak International—the company he has co-founded, and his views on perspective—a gift his early peripatetic life has blessed him.
A member of the Scottish green party at 16, and the youngest ever MSP at 21— at 25 he’s still fighting. Here he explains how gender, climate change and poverty are all interrelated, and why recycling is not at the top of his agenda.
The face behind our portraits- Paul, a chartered accountant based in Glasgow. In this short Q&A we catch a glimpse into his working world.