An Inverness-based studio has “thrown up” a challenge for its latest project.
The Highland Print Studio in the city’s Bank Street has joined forces with the Camanachd Association and four clubs in the region, in a new scheme which will picture the game in a completely different light.
The Throw Up 2018 visual arts shinty project – named after the moment when the ball is thrown up inthe air to start a match – is inviting artists in a variety of disciplines to submit examples of their work to be considered for this unique venture.
Studio director, Alison McMenemy, said: “We have worked with various groups before but this is our first sporting one. I must admit I didn’t know much about shinty at all as I’m really a football fan, but I’ve been to a few games and have really enjoyed them.
“We are really excited about this project as it is quite unusual to have an art and shinty collaboration.”
Ms McMenemy explained that they are looking for artists to submit examples of their work and also to write about why they would like to be involved in the project.
“Their techniques can be really varied from etching, to photographs, to artwork in different elements. The shinty clubs taking part are Newtonmore, Fort William, Beauly and Skye, so four artist will be chosen altogether.
“They will get to know the clubs, the players and the fans and learn about the history of the game. Some clubs were formed in the 1860s so they will find out a bit about the social history of the area as well.
“The players are amateurs and take part in the sport because they love playing the game and that is important too.”
The artists selected will spend at least four residencies at the clubs starting in July and they will produce a series of original prints forming a contemporary visual archive that will be a lasting legacy for each club.
They will work in collaboration with the studio and their artwork will also be exhibited at the Camanachd Cup final in 2018.
The closing date for submissions is Friday, May 5, and applicants will be invited for interviews during the week beginning Monday, May 15.
Ms McMenemy said: “There will be regular updates on the progress of the project on our facebook page and also on the website. We are delighted to be involved in such an unique venture.”
The project is funded by Highland Culture Strategic Board’s ‘Highland Culture: Take Pride, Take Part’ programme.
