Artists and Primary Pupils Transform Public Loo Exterior with Hiking and Cycling Mural

A colourful new artwork has been created in Sanquhar to mark the crossing point of the Southern Upland Way and the cycle route from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

Artists Toubie Jack, Lorraine Melissa and David Rushton worked with Sanquhar Primary 7 pupils over the summer to create the artwork, a mural which brightens up the outside of the public loos, and on Tuesday 6th November they formally handed it over to Dumfries and Galloway Council.

David Rushton said: “The pupils and artists chose the theme to celebrate the meeting place of cyclists and walkers on two epic and challenging journeys. It was a really enjoyable project for everyone involved and was great for these young people to be involved in creating a piece of art that will last for many years. We’re also delighted to have had the opportunity to transform a very plain exterior into something the whole community, as well as visitors from all round the world, can enjoy.”

Toubie Jack showed the pupils how to paint landscape and forest scenes via a live TV link from her studio in Manchester, while David Rushton brought in bike parts and walking gear for the children to draw in the school art class. Toubie and Lorraine Melissa then worked with pupils at weekends to create the mural.

The project was funded through the Council and DGU’s Regional Arts Fund, which is now inviting applications for projects in 2019/20.

Councillor Andy Ferguson, Chairman of the Communities Committee, who received the mural on behalf of the Council, said: “This is an excellent example of how getting involved in the arts can help young people learn new skills while creating something really impressive, of which their whole community can be proud.”

Cathy Agnew, Chair of DG Unlimited, said: “I’m delighted to see the Regional Arts Fund supporting projects like this, which bring people of all ages together to develop their creativity and make a positive difference to their local area.”
 
Find out more about the Dumfries and Galloway Regional Arts Fund 2018/19.