Island artist opens new driftwood exhibition

An exhibition of new works by Harris artist Joceline Hildrey has been unveiled at Talla na Mara.

Artwork by Joceline Hildrey

Titled ‘Tri Eileanan’ (three islands) it is inspired by the landscape and bird life of some of Scotland’s most remote locations. The free exhibition will run until the end of the month during the West Harris Trust venue’s opening hours.

“The exhibition is based on my observations from trips out to the Flannan Isles, St Kilda and the Shiants,” says Joceline. “It focuses on the bird life and geology found on the islands, which particularly caught my attention. Created on pieces of found driftwood, each piece of art is unique in its relationship with the wood and the resulting image.”

The artworks’ connection to the islands is further demonstrated in the handwritten labels that accompany each exhibit, describing not just the subject, but the source of the driftwood used, for example, ‘Puffins on Gneiss’ is painted on driftwood that Joceline found on Scarista beach. ‘Gannet and Gneiss’ incorporates lichen and paint that were already on the driftwood when she started work.

Joceline’s art and designs will be familiar to regular visitors to Talla na Mara, as she is based in a sea-view studio and shop at the site. This exhibition is an opportunity to see her newest works showcased in a larger setting within the main centre.