Skye's Landscape & Legends Explored Through Art
Scotland and her islands are brimming full of enchantment, and Skye, with her mist-shrouded mountains, dramatic coastlines, and moody lochs, embodies this magic.
If you’re not fully versed in the landscapes and legends of our wonderful island, then you’re in the right hands. With the help of a couple of our favourite artists, we shall guide you through our most loved island spots.
Nestled within Skye's dramatic landscape looms the Old Man of Storr, a majestic pinnacle steeped in myth and majesty. Legends tell of ancient giants who once traversed these lands, their presence echoed in the rugged contours of this iconic landmark. Captured in a striking lino print by Ludovica Perosin, as part of a collaborative project with Òr, the artwork encapsulates the enduring mystique of Skye's breathtaking terrain.
Perched atop Skye's rugged terrain, the Cuillin Ridge is a place where magical beings are believed to dwell, whimsically shaping the weather and the fortunes of travelers - and for anyone who has braved Scotland's unpredictable weather, it's easy to imagine that only mystical creatures could be responsible for such erratic patterns!
Glasgow artist Mandy Maria draws her inspiration from the landscape. Using pigments crafted from minerals gathered during her expeditions, Maria's soft-pastel creations beautifully capture both the rugged beauty and mystical allure of the Cuillin Ridge.
Along the shores of Skye's southwestern coast, you'll find Tarskavaig Beach. This secluded stretch of coastline, embraced by rolling hills and overlooked by the distant Cuillin Ridge, is also home to the legendary, heart-breaking shapeshifters known as Selkies. Who according to legend, upon discarding their seal skins, rise from the sea and take form as beautiful, dark-haired humans.
Today, you might struggle to find a Selkie, but Tarskavaig Beach remains a sanctuary for solitude seekers. Edinburgh-based artist Louise Smurthwaite, captivated by the beach's serene allure, finds inspiration in its gentle rhythms and subtle hues. In this beautiful Risograph print, Smurthwaite captures the essence of Tarskavaig's natural beauty under Skye's ever-changing skies.
