Gullane art exhibition shows works inspired by East Lothian

The exhibition, titled ‘Made in East Lothian’, opened in Fidra Fine Art, Gullane, on Saturday with a chance to meet the artists.

It features a diverse range of works by both contemporary and historical artists, all of whom have either been based in East Lothian or have drawn inspiration from the region’s landscape.

Participating artists include Julie Barnes, Claire Beattie, John Boak, Georgina Bown, George Birrell, Alan Connell, Ann Cowan, Fee Dickson, Matthew Draper, Ronnie Fulton, Andy Heald, Kate Henderson, Ged Lerpiniere, Sam MacDonald, Rachel Marshall, Linda MacKinnon, Line Mortensen, Pascale Rentsch, Sue Shields, Jayne Stokes, Astrid Trügg, Elizabeth Vischer, Christopher Wood, Darren Woodhead and Julia Zeller-Jacques.

Haddington (Image: Alexander Garden Sinclair) The exhibition, which is open until March 30, also showcases works by figures such as John Bellany, John Campbell Mitchell, Patrick William Adam, James Elder Christie, Sir William Gillies and Alexander Garden Sinclair.

East Lothian, with its scenic towns, countryside and coastline, has a long history of attracting and inspiring artistic talent.

The Tate Britain collection of J.M.W. Turner includes sketches of East Lothian castles and Bass Rock.

Twin Beaks (Image: Rachel Marshall) In the early 20th century, East Linton was a popular spot for artists, with Robert Noble, John Pettie and Arthur Melville working in the area.

The Scottish Colourists F.C.B. Cadell and S.J. Peploe, as well as Sir John Lavery, who painted a well-known series of views over the West Links at North Berwick, were frequent visitors to the coastline.

The well-known interiors artist Patrick William Adam was based in North Berwick, while Sir William Gillies and John Bellany were also inspired by the county.

Aberlady Bay (Image: Pascale Rentsch) Today, East Lothian boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous courses available throughout the county, while the county is home to numerous galleries and dedicated arts groups.