Borderers of all ages are being given the opportunity to explore hidden aspects of the heritage of Traquair House, near Innerleithen, through a series of artist-led workshops.
Complementing the Reflective Histories exhibition which is currently on show at Traquair, a joint initiative between Edinburgh Printmakers and Traquair, featuring the work of seven contemporary Scottish artists, the workshops – to be held on the weekend of August 11 and 12 –include archery, insect trapping, printmaking and talks by artists.
West Lothian artist Lesley Logue will host an archery-based session on the Saturday afternoon that will not only give visitors the chance to be trained in shooting a bow and arrow, but will provide an insight into Traquair’s history as a shooting lodge. The historic house was once surrounded by forests where animals – including deer, wolves, wild boar and bears – would roam.
Borders-based artist Helen Douglas will deliver a talk on the Saturday evening, introducing the books she creates which tell stories through photography and print techniques.
Naturalists will be intrigued by the two workshops being delivered by Nicola Murray, the first of which involves a Saturday evening foray in the grounds of Traquair to attract and trap flying insects. The second session, held the following morning, will utilise the insects caught the previous night as subjects for drawing and printmaking.
Ruth Grindley, from Edinburgh Printmakers, said: “We have an interactive programme of events linked to the Reflective Histories exhibition running until the exhibition closes at the end of September. Each event has been developed to illustrate different aspects of art and Traquair House.
“We hope that local people will find something within the programme that appeals and come along to experience something new.”
For full information visit www.edinburghprintmakers.co.uk.