While many lovely artworks created during workshops will now be adorning farming households, an “Art of Farming” sculpture has been installed outside the entrance of Thainstone Agricultural Centre.
The sculpture serves as a true legacy of the creative engagement and skills development experienced during the project, and as a visual celebration of the essential role of farming in society.
The sculpture is a collaboration by both artists and the local farming community who modelled the bronze medallions which are embedded into it. The design, inspired by a participant farmer, represents agriculture as the hub of the circular economy, with the farmers at the very centre negotiating the ups and downs of life on the land. The stone represents the bedrock from which our soils develop.
Officially “unveiled” by Provost Judy Whyte, at a ceremony in September, participants recalled the pleasure of chatting and sharing stories while they worked, developing confidence to express themselves creatively, having a sense of achievement and, most importantly, having fun for a while.
It is fitting that this sculpture has found a home at Thainstone Agricultural Centre, itself an important hub for local farmers, where it will serve as a reminder of this fruitful coming together of art and farming.
