Art and Design pupils from Carrick Academy in Maybole have helped complete the final stage of the Alloway Tunnel Mural by creating a vibrant sunflower canopy dedicated to a late teacher. The workshop, part of a school residency, was sponsored by the North Carrick Community Benefit Company (NCCBC) and made possible by Scottish Power Renewables.
Professional Artist Collaboration
Students worked alongside acclaimed mural artist Chris Rutterford, who has already collaborated with more than 2,500 people from the Ayrshire community to create one of Scotland's largest murals. The project, which has taken three years to complete, represents Ayrshire history with a focus on the work of Robert Burns.
The theme for the school workshop was sunflowers, chosen to honor Gillian Robb, a former art teacher at Doon Academy in Dalmellington. Robb, who passed away from cancer in July last year at age 39, was a farmer's wife and sheep breeder. Her family requested a personalized portrait featuring two of her Dutch Spotted sheep.
A Tribute to Gillian Robb
Rutterford explained the story behind the sunflower theme: “Carol, Gillian's mum, told me at a 'Meet the Artist' event that she particularly loved sunflowers and was always painting them - she asked if I could pop some in the mural. I thought given she was a teacher it was far more appropriate to get a school to help me create a vibrant, colourful canopy of sunflowers on the ceiling dedicated to Gillian.”
He added: “As it stands the vaults above the memorial portraits will be 40m long - a massive field of joy! It just seemed the right thing to do, not just for Gillian - it's going to give everyone a pang of joy.”
Community and Student Involvement
Sharon Turner, Principal Teacher of Art at Carrick Academy, said: “I felt very fortunate to be part of such a rewarding and inspiring experience. Working closely with Chris and our talented pupils on this large-scale mural fostered creativity and teamwork, and it was wonderful to see their talents truly flourish throughout.”
Turner noted that 104 children were involved in the project, bringing energy and creativity. The artwork will be installed later in the summer, and pupils will be invited to see their work and receive a guided tour of the entire mural.
Recognition and Future Workshops
The Alloway Railway Tunnel project has been shortlisted for a Visit Scotland Thistle Award for the 'Best Community Tourism and Events Initiative' in the South West of Scotland. One more mural art workshop is planned, to be held at the Robert Burns Cottage Education Pavilion from 2nd to 9th August, aimed at local amateur or professional artists.
Rutterford said: “The Gilding the Lily Workshop is a special moment for us. A homecoming to the Burns Cottage Gallery where this started three years ago. Back then the project was in its infancy. Now we are really there to put the cherry on top. So proud of what we have all achieved in this project.”
Local artists can book a free place by contacting shelagh@allowaytunnel.onmicrosoft.com.
