The Stables, Cromarty, until 27 August 2007

THE CROMARTY Arts Group’s annual exhibition has come around again. This year, there is a dedication to Alistair Dunn, a founder member, who sadly died earlier this year, but whose family are well represented in the exhibition as always. The exhibits are a fitting tribute to him.

Anyone unfamiliar with Cromarty might not expect an exhibition of such high quality from a small town, but this group has been in existence for over thirty years and now attracts many artists, some with only a very loose connection to the town, giving a breadth and quality reminiscent of a much bigger catchment.

The Stables where the exhibition is being held is situated on the edge of town and provides an ideal space with plenty of natural light and seating to enjoy what is on offer. There are studios available within the block for artists to use [see weblink below for more info – Ed.] and hopefully this will help continue the quality seen this year.

The exhibition has a mixture of paintings, pottery, sculpture and photography with prices to suit all levels. Each of the contributors has submitted work at the top of their range, and a selection of prints or items at the lower price range as well. Even at such an early stage, there are a number of red dots on exhibits, although they will remain on display until the end for us all to enjoy.

My own favourites were Simon Gunn’s colourful representations of a man and his dog in a variety of unnamed, but probably local, locations. I also enjoyed Alex Dunn’s grey drawings.

As always, Barbel Dister’s pottery was a delight – everyone had their own favourite teapot, but I loved her highly glazed bowls. Beral Anderson’s ceramics sheep were wonderfully weird; their expressions have remained stubbornly in my head.

The inclusion of photography in the exhibition is always welcome and the wonderful images captured by Iain Sarjeant and Andrew Dowsett capture the beauty we are surrounded by in the Highlands, but may not always take the time to notice.

A variety of paintings by Caroline Hewat and painting and prints by Janis Mennie round off another excellent exhibition by this talented group. You would be well advised to make the time to visit this lovely location and enjoy the variety of work on offer.

© Karen Ray, 2007

Links

• Cromarty Arts Trust