Art on Ness Islands

On Ness Islands artist Keith Barrett has completed work on a major ‘land art’ project. He worked daily on building a flowing form of stone, timber and turf that is both sculptural and functional; the work has created a kind of seating arena that can be used for picnicking, performances (power supply is available) and enjoying the sunshine. In addition, Keith and ranger Katy Martin have conducted workshops with children on the islands to generate images of natural forms – from fish to bats – which have been cast in iron and installed in the arena sculpture.

Most of the benches on the islands have been replaced with robust and attractive sculptural benches by artist Nigel Ross. Each bench is carved from a single piece of wood and all have been installed securely into a solid concrete base.

Entrance features by woodworker Chris Bailey have been installed and offer maps of the Islands and some information about the flora and fauna found there.

Finally new bridge balustrades have been installed which were designed by Ironworker Adam Booth and custom-made for the two small footbridges on Lade Island that reflect the movements of flowing water. 

For more information please see castle and riverside ness islands.