Sculpture at Clints of Dromore
Inspired by the sights and sounds of the magnificent upland reserve near Gatehouse of Fleet, people are being invited to have a go at graffiti art, and create their own paintings. The colourful pictures will then be displayed on an external wall at the entrance to the visitor centre, for future visitors to admire.
The free event is hosted by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), who manage the reserve, and renowned local wildlife artist Keith Brown, who will be on hand throughout the day to provide advice to budding artists as their paintings take shape. Keith is well-known for his pictures of the wildlife of the Solway throughout the seasons, with the backdrop of evocative coastal and upland landscapes.
He said: “It is the wildlife, stunning skies and landscapes all around us that provide the inspiration for my work. What we hope to do at Cairnsmore of Fleet on Saturday is encourage everyone to paint or draw what they see in the natural world around them. We can all draw and paint and this event is an opportunity for people of all ages to have a go.”
Neil McKie, the SNH reserve officer for Cairnsmore of Fleet, said: “Although we’re more familiar with graffiti in an urban setting, on Saturday our inspiration will come from nature. We can all draw, even if it’s just a doodle on a phone pad. With the backdrop of the heathery hills of Cairnsmore of Fleet, the crags and cliffs of the Clints of Dromore, carnivorous plants like sundews, dragonflies, ravens and maybe even a golden eagle, there are a wealth of subjects round about. This is an opportunity to be coached by a local artist and have your work displayed on a very public wall.”
The Cairnsmore of Fleet reserve already features the sculptures of artist Matt Baker as examples of artworks inspired by the landscape. Those taking part in the event can follow a series of short all-abilities walking trails around the reserve to get ideas for their artistic creations.
The event runs from 10am until 3pm this Saturday at the Cairnsmore of Fleet NNR visitor centre. It is open to everyone. All materials, including paints and brushes will be provided. All you need is your imagination, suitable outdoor clothing and footwear for walking around the reserve. As paints will be used, some old clothes or an overall may be useful.
To book a place or for further information, please ring the SNH Cairnsmore NNR Office on 01557 814435, or just turn up on the day. Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve is off the B796, 8 miles from Gatehouse of Fleet and 7 miles from Creetown. For a full description and map of the sculpture walk at the Clints of Dromore visit the Walkhighlands website.