Helensburgh’s Outdoor Museum unveiled its newest exhibit recently, celebrating the area’s rich archaeological heritage with a new sculpture inspired by a local artefact.
The latest artwork to grace a plinth in Colquhoun Square is a representation of a Bronze Age food vessel excavated at Portkil on the Rosneath Peninsula.
The idea for the sculpture was the winning entry in the "Put YOUR Town on a Pedestal" competition, organised by Argyll and Bute Council in partnership with the Helensburgh Outdoor Museum Design Panel. It was submitted by the North Clyde Archaeological Society and brought to life by sculptor Ruaraig Maciver of Beltane Studios.
The new exhibit forms part of wider plans to continue developing the Outdoor Museum. Funding for the artwork was provided through ring-fenced capital funds from the Council’s CHORD Project, agreed by councillors in 2018, alongside support from the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment Fund.
Councillor Jim Lynch, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council and Policy Lead for Economic Development, Housing, Islands and Communities, said:
“This fantastic new addition to Helensburgh’s Outdoor Museum celebrates an important piece of our local history and demonstrates how culture, heritage and creativity can come together in our public spaces.
“The winning idea from the North Clyde Archaeological Society shines a light on the area’s archaeological significance, while Ruaraig Maciver’s impressive sculpture brings that story to life for residents and visitors alike.”
