The beautiful landscape and light of Argyll’s Secret Coast have inspired generations of artists. Many artists and makers live and work here and there are two galleries showcasing a wide range of fabulous work. You could spend a happy day or weekend visiting them and discovering the delights of Argyll’s Secret Coast along the way.
1. Tighnabruaich Gallery sits at the heart of the village of Tighnabruaich. Run by Ros and Neil McKenna, it brings a range of dynamic and engaging works to rural Scotland alongside contemporary art and crafts from established and emerging talents. The gallery hosts a host a series of exhibitions throughout the year. April’s exhibition, Where The Streams Come From, features new work by ceramicist Michaela Goan and poet Chris Goan. There's an accompanying programme of events, workshops and poetry readings.
Things to do nearby: walk along the seafront and enjoy glorious views to Bute, pop into the Shinty Bar at the Royal an Lochan for a drink.
2. At The Dairy Gallery at Carry Farm you'll find a wonderful selection of textiles and ceramics. Fiona McPhail produces knitted textiles using yarn from her Hebridean sheep. She creates a variety of beautiful objects from cushions and tea cosies to foot stools, bags and even a knitted bucket. Her sister Karen makes fabulous, functional pottery.
Things to do nearby: Take a walk around Carry Point where you’ll meet Barney the donkey and the flock of Hebridean sheep. Further around the Ardlamont Peninsula, you can walk to the fabulous sandy Ostel Bay.
The Royal an Lochan and Kames Hotel are both champions of local artists as you’ll see lots of artwork adorning the walls. The Harbour Gallery at the Royal shows work by Tarbert artist Stuart Herd.
Argyll’s Secret Coast is a great base for artistic exploration. Hop on the ferry to Tarbert to visit some lovely galleries, head into Dunoon to experience a thriving artistic scene and visit Bute to discover some wonderful island-inspired art. Dunoon Burgh Hall runs an excellent programme of exhibitions throughout the year.
One of the major artistic events of the year is Cowal Open Studios, when over 30 local artists throw open the doors of their studios to the public. Follow the arts trail deep into some of the most beautiful and hidden parts of Argyll’s Secret Coast and beyond. Cowal Open Studios runs from 21st to 24th September 2018