Longest day inspires illuminating art

INTRICATE artwork inspired by a bird’s nest was the winner of a competition to celebrate the longest day.

Inverness architects HRI|Munro threw out a challenge to the public to create an innovative and unusual artwork to mark the summer solstice.

It was the second time in row for winner Sarah James-Gaukroger who also won first prize in a similar competition in December to mark the winter solstice.

Ms James-Gaukroger, of Old Edinburgh Road, Inverness, runs a commission-based business hand-crafting items such as bridal accessories, special clothes, jewellery and interiors from old sentimental treasures.

Her competition entry was judged to be the winner by Cathy Shankland, of Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

Ms James-Gaukroger explained the artwork represented a warbler’s nest between two henges and was filled with light and hope.

"She inspires us to spend time outside and to honour the sun which gives life and encourages us to give thanks to the light that guides our days," she explained.

"She has collected flowers to decorate her nest which is sited to align with the sunrise on the solstice."

She said that the longest day was a time for reflection.

"Just the nest is a home, I understand how important a home is to people," she said. "It should be a sanctuary to us."

Her previous winning entry was also based on a bird’s nest.

"I love nests," Ms James-Gaukroger said.

"We have so many building regulations we have to follow yet a bird can build its nest completely by instinct."

Her artwork will be on show at the Upstairs Gallery at the HRI|Munro offices in Academy Street until Friday, July 6.

An exhibition entitled Love Is In The Air will showcase more of her work in February.

An artwork entitled The Wick-er Man by Fergus Stevenson was winner of the public vote.

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