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The completion of this project will see the first permanent major installation within a public landscape by Andy Goldsworthy in Scotland. The installation consists of a series of permanent sandstone arches sited in specifically chosen high points around the natural amphitheatre at the head of Cairnhead Glen. The positioning of the arches encourages visitors to experience the landscape through different routes. This network of access points is designed in parallel to the positioning of the artworks. Also being developed as part of this project is “The Byre”, an outdoor sculptural space for interpretation and orientation.

Striding Arches is a partnership project: an example of collaboration between environmental and arts agencies contributing to the culture and tourism of the region. As this project has developed, other artists have become involved in the vision of the original concept and in the delivery of workshops with the local community.

A major partner in the project was Forestry Commission Scotland with additional partners including Solway Heritage, Scottish Natural Heritage, Wee Sleekit and Mike Bolam.

See also: Archive: Striding Arches Commission Plan

Artists

• Andy Goldsworthy (lead)
• Pip Hall
• Alec Finlay

Funding

SAC Award amount

£99,500.00

Project total cost

£289,750.00

Funding purpose

Towards the cost of the "Striding Arches" environmental sculpture project in Cairnhead Forest.

(Please note dates and details correct at time of award.)

Consultation & Commissioning Process

The commissioning and management of Striding Arches is led by the public art agency, Ginkgo Projects. However, the initial idea for this project has been artist-led through the locally based and internationally renowned artist, Andy Goldsworthy. He originally approached the Cairnhead Community Forest Trust and Dumfries & Galloway Arts Association with his ideas. These ideas were subsequently developed through a specific Commission Plan.

Integral to Striding Arches is the programme of educational events which is intended to offer greater educational access to the work of this artist. Students from Further and Higher Education Institutions have participated in projects associated with the development of Striding Arches, benefiting from the expertise and knowledge of the artist, the design team and the partnership of Dumfries & Galloway Arts Association and Cairnhead Community Forest Trust.

Outcomes

• The installation of “Striding Arches”: a series of sandstone arches sited within the landscape of Cairnhead Forest
• The Byre: innovative sculptural building and outdoor interpretation space designed by Andy Goldsworthy and Solway Heritage
• Education Programme: art and landscape symposium; education publication; artist talks