Discover the story behind Gerard’s ‘Mother Glasgow’ exhibition

‘Mother Glasgow’ is a celebration (via 15 oil-painted portraits) of multiculturalism within the city of Glasgow, and the essential role of women in our society.

In all of the various exhibitions I’ve been involved in, both here in Glasgow and around the world, I’ve used my portraits to tell stories… either about politicians, actors, individuals from the world of business and sport, or simply individuals who’ve come into my life for one reason or another.

In this case, each of these paintings and the subjects depicted has an important story to tell. Stories about the importance of immigration, of multiculturalism and the role of women in our society…

Stories which matter now more than ever in these increasingly polarised times.

G

“Gina Eusebi was born in 1942 in the hilltop village of Castelforte, Southern Italy — the eldest of four, a gifted seamstress by thirteen, and fluent in Italian, Portuguese, and French. From her family she learned the spirit of cucina povera: nothing wasted, everything treasured. Food, for Gina, was never just sustenance — it was memory, healing, and love.

Her journey carried her far from home — first to São Paulo, then Lyon, and finally to Glasgow. At just nineteen, she stepped off the train at Central Station carrying her trousseau: a suitcase filled with hand-embroidered sheets and linens, lovingly prepared by her mother as a blessing for married life. Waiting to meet her was her father-in-law, ready to collect her in the family ice cream van.

Gina made Glasgow her home. She learned English behind the counter of a café in Partick, adapted to a new culture, and, with her husband Eddie, opened a small East End deli. From its shelves came homemade pasta, bread, and lasagne — food that brought comfort and connection to everyone who walked through the door.
Today, her story lives on through Eusebi Deli & Restaurant in Glasgow’s West End, where the values she carried with her — food, family, life, and passion — remain at the heart of every table.”

 “Italy gave me roots. Glasgow opened its heart to me and gave me a home.”