A series of free art workshops will launch our new initiative to encourage more people to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of being outdoors.
During the summer and autumn, two artists will use the nature and biodiversity of our country parks to inspire schools, community groups and visitors to create their own artwork.
The first workshop on 29 May offers participants of all ages the chance to learn the basics of working with chalk to create their own nature inspired pathway. Two sessions will take place at 10.00am and 11.30am. Book at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/artist-in-resident-at-strathclyde-country-park-65225624533.
Workshops can also be provided for local groups. Contact our Greenspace Team if interested at greenspaceprojects@northlan.gov.uk
The Artists in Residence initiative is part of our plans to create an art park within Strathclyde Country Park, with a trail linking pieces of artwork and features, as well as artistic projects at Palacerigg and Drumpellier Country Parks.
A key element of the art park will be a Covid-19 memorial, as part of the Scottish Government’s Remembering Together program which will create a memorial in each Scottish local authority area.
The two artists in residence are Gill White and Kathryn Hanna. Gill is a multidisciplinary artist working in art, design, and film. Her public art and participatory art projects actively encourage spending time in nature, exploring the great outdoors by celebrating what makes a place unique.
Kathryn is a sculptor and socially-engaged artist who aims to make the arts accessible to all. She creates sculptures and art installations using a variety of modern and traditional techniques including casting, laser cutting, woodwork, metalwork, stone masonry and letter cutting.
Gill says: “I’m delighted to be invited to help launch the Art Park project and spark the summer art workshops. I’m looking forward to collaborating with everyone in the local community to explore new creative ideas together as we look at the unique landscape of the country park from sunny loch shores, wetlands to native woodlands.”
Kathryn looks forward to taking on the project later this year: “This is a unique opportunity to work with communities in North Lanarkshire to explore their relationship and connection to green space. My artistic practice explores the complex relationship between people and place, particularly how a place can make you think, feel, and become a space for reflection.”