Unique marine exhibition in Oban believed to be world first
The hidden beauty of Mid Argyll’s marine environment is being showcased at a unique exhibition in Oban – thought to be the first of its kind in the world.
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.”
All these genres are represented in the Oban exhibition, which also incorporates a programme of events, including: a seaside walk with guided drawing session; a pen and ink drawing workshop with a scientific twist; a writing and book-making workshop and a curator’s tour.
Keira added: “Our other projects include an education programme of up to six sessions for primary schools. It covers marine ecology, water safety, rock-pooling, creativity, Gaelic language and culture, and global citizenship.”
It is hoped that the exhibition, which runs until April 21, will highlight the exceptional and fragile richness of the Argyll Hope Spot and encourage more of the community to get involved in its preservation. Information about the organisation’s arts and education programmes can be obtained by emailing: hello@argyllhopespot.scot
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