Auchinstarry Environmental Art Project

In 2007 The Waterways Trust Scotland commissioned Impact Arts to create an environmental landform called Scents and Sensitivities for the Auchinstarry Canal Basin near Croy in East Dunbartonshire.

This was as part of a larger regeneration project for the surrounding area. The Basin is home to a number of house boats and moorings and in dramatic and atmospheric setting. The project aims were to build on this, and transform the local environment by creating a sensory garden, a nature trail and an outdoor recreational experience for people of all abilities and of all ages.

We were to source and commission an artist who was living and working in Scotland and after a tendering process, Barry Grove was selected to create the environmental landform.

Barry, originally from Kilsyth is a Sculptor and stonemason. His areas of expertise are stone carving, public art, illustration, ceramics and photography.

As well as a number high profile commissions he has also worked closely with the museums of Scotland creating monumental pieces of art throughout Scotland.

Barry produced a series of designs for the artform, which then went to a public vote through the local council’s website.

On a freezing, frosty morning on the 21st December 2007 the four sandstone monoliths forming the most popular design (above) were erected on the site creating a slightly mystic effect! When the weather warmed up Barry inserted beautiful handmade glass panels into each monolith to complete the installation.

In the spring of 2008, we worked with children from the local area to plant the sensory garden area, to create a true sense of community achievement.

The Artwork is now a focal point of the basin which over time will weather and become an almost natural part of the environment loved by local residents and visitors alike.