A common theme running through the work is the inspiration of the Highlands, from accessories in Highland 2007 tartan to foxes and seals balanced on delicate silver vessels Eileen Gatt.

In 2007 a group of artists worked with the Royal Observatory Edinburgh and Highland schools to identify a new constellation in the skies to celebrate Highland 2007. Pupils selected dates significant to them from Highland history and plotted them in light years from the earth. They then selected a star for their area and developed stories related to this date in their local history. Once each area had a star they were joined up to identify the Highland Constellation Co-reult na Gàidhealtachd and a competition was launched to name it, which was won by Ullapool pupil, Alexander Stewart with his winning design, Jumping Fish Iasg a’ Leum.

A specially bound book of the project, Book Rockets, which includes new work by the project’s writer, Linda Cracknell, Book Rockets and the Star jewellery collection are both on show in this showcase exhibition.

Cridhe na Gaidhealtachd - Craft in the Highlands has been organised by the Highland Council, Highland 2007 and the Scottish Parliament.

© Tina Rose, 2007