Unique marine exhibition in Oban believed to be world first

Over the last five years artists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world have explored beneath the surface of sea lochs and coastal waters from Tayvallich to Loch Melfort.

The natural treasures they discovered there inspired some extraordinary artwork – all of it originating from the artists’ experiences of snorkelling in the area.

Now the culmination of this creative study, organised by Argyll Hope Spot, is being displayed at Oban’s Rockfield Centre.

Argyll Hope Spot is part of a global network of more than 150 specially designated sites that includes the Galapagos Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

Organiser Keira Anderson explained: “Our designation is a recognition of Argyll’s coasts and waters as being on a par with these world-famous places in terms of biodiversity of marine life, and cultural significance too.

“Argyll Hope Spot is the only mainland UK Hope Spot and is championed by four local community groups; Friends of the Sound of Jura, CROMACH, Friends of Loch Etive and CAOLAS.”

The snorkelling workshops that inspired this new exhibition saw artists exploring the Sound of Jura, Loch Sween, Caol Scotnish, Loch Craignish and Loch Melfort.

In addition to making use of this extraordinary local seascape, members of the Mid Argyll community are also crucial to the success of these residencies and the subsequent artworks.

Seaweed expert Lottie Goodlet and wildlife artist Jane Smith, both Tayvallich residents, work as tutors at the residencies, along with fellow local and swim coach Dan Coyle.

The artists work in the sea and onshore; many sketches are actually created while underwater.

“Their work brings to life scenes that we don’t normally see, and are not often represented through art,” Keira said. “We believe it is the only snorkelling artist’s residency in the world.

“Our residency is open to a broad range of artists and communicators, and this is reflected in the exhibition. It includes painting, printmaking, sculpture, jewellery, music, poetry, animation and more.”