During his visit to Caithness, HM King Charles III took time to visit the annual exhibition of the Society of Caithness Artists (SCA), which was celebrating its 90th show at the ETEC building, part of Thurso’s UHI NWH campus.
Ian Pearson, the SCA chair, welcomed the King and introduced several of the Society’s members, who explained various aspects of their displayed artworks.
Ian Pearson welcoming King Charles III to the Society of Caithness Artists’ 90th exhibition in Thurso. Accompanying the King was Lord Thurso. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographySociety of Caithness Artists members at the royal visit were, from left, Valerie Barker, Don Clarke, Anne Grain, Aileen Paton, Ian Pearson, Penny Irvine, Jackie Newton, and Jean MacKay. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyThe King greets Christine Campbell, ETEC facility manager. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyKing Charles is introduced to Jean MacKay, treasurer of the Society of Caithness Artists. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyThe King appears intrigued by Valerie Barker’s artwork on display. Picture: Angus Mackay Photography
The King was particularly interested to hear about the newly formed Thurso Art Club, where several new members were encouraged to participate in the annual exhibition for the first time.
Mr Pearson explained how the King was “impressed by the wide range of techniques” on display and specifically noted the numerous materials used, which he described as inspiring.
Studying sculptures at the show. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyThe King chats with local artist Penny Irvine about her work. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyIan Pearson and King Charles looking at Sheila Butler’s work. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyIan Pearson and the King discussing Lisa Critchley’s seascape paintings. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyArtist Aileen Paton chats with the King about her mixed media piece. Picture: Angus Mackay Photography
While touring the show, King Charles was keen to learn how each artist had produced their work. He also highlighted the “shortage of art and craft skills” and encouraged members to “teach other and share their skills”, said the chair.
The King also took note of two of his own watercolours that the SCA had been loaned for display. One titled ‘The Castle of Mey from the Walled Garden’ and the other ‘Abandoned Croft on the island of Stroma, Caithness (i)’ have never been exhibited in the annual exhibition before now.
King Charles III talks to the Society of Caithness Artists’ chair Ian Pearson. In the background is an eclectic painting by professional artist William B Wallace called ‘Celebrating Caithness’. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyKing Charles and Ian Pearson closely study some of the works on show at the Thurso exhibition. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyAnne Grain explains her creative techniques. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyKing Charles speaks to artist Jackie Newton at the Thurso show. Picture: Angus Mackay PhotographyProfessional artist Don Clarke talks to King Charles about his artwork. Picture: Angus Mackay Photography
“As a keen artist himself, the King appreciated all the exhibitors’ efforts in producing an excellent exhibition,” added Mr Pearson.
At the end of the visit, the King congratulated the Society for celebrating its 90th annual exhibition and wished all a “happy, creative future”.
The exhibition is open daily from 3pm until 8pm until Friday, August 1. Visitors can enjoy the traditional scenes of the Caithness countryside with views of Orkney, along with more imaginative creations using a varied mix of material from felt, metal and wood to ceramics, glass and stone.
Prices are also most varied between £15 and £3500. Entry to the exhibition is free.
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