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Covenant exhibition at Moray Art Centre in Findhorn explores the area's relationship with the armed forces


By Garry McCartney

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The exhibition was curated by Harry Ross, a Reservist in 7 SCOTS, and trustee of Moray Art Centre.
The exhibition was curated by Harry Ross, a Reservist in 7 SCOTS, and trustee of Moray Art Centre.

A GALLERY is collaborating with the Army for its biggest exhibition since re-opening after the coronavirus lockdowns.

‘Covenant’ at Moray Art Centre (MAC) explores Moray’s relationship with the armed forces, paying particular attention to 39 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers in Kinloss and The Black Watch, 3rd Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland at Fort George.

MAC trustee, curator and artistic researcher at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Harry Ross, confirmed the event provides perspectives on military life through the eyes of over 20 artists who have had unprecedented access to service personnel.

He said: “It’s been intriguing to see the diverse visual conversations that have been initiated and developed.

“The results range from abstract sculptural forms to emotionally charged oil paintings.

“This project puts us in direct dialogue with an important aspect of our surrounding environment.”

Visitors appreciating the art on display at Moray Art Centre.
Visitors appreciating the art on display at Moray Art Centre.

The exhibition features newly commissioned artwork by MAC tutors Kenneth Le Riche, Celia Forestal Smith and Leah Davis, who is MAC’s new artist convenor.

Nine students from Moray School of Art, Moray College UHI also spent time engaging with the theme as part of their professional practice curriculum. Their research, concepts and progression sketches is exhibited, giving an insight into how artists develop work and consider elements such as display and interpretation.

Covenant also includes an open exhibition of art commissioned and created by serving and retired servicepeople and next of kin.

British Army lead for Arts and Culture Engagement, Lt Col Wendy Faux said the exhibition forms part of a wider Forces engagement: ‘Society Connected’ prioritises and reinforces the diversity of cultures in the British Army.

She said: “When considering the link between the arts and the military, an immediate thought is to our incredible galleries where paintings take us back to historic battles.

“It is imperative that we understand how society views their military.

“It is the first exhibition of its kind to include art students, artists commissioned by the Moray Arts Centre and the military community.

“I hope that this will generate conversations about the Armed Forces Covenant and how each of our communities has a symbiotic role.”

Admission is free to Covenant from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am-4pm until December 5.

Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Major General Seymour Monro (3rd from left) opening the exhibition with featured artists and soldiers from Fort George who offered their support. Picture by Wendy Faux.
Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Major General Seymour Monro (3rd from left) opening the exhibition with featured artists and soldiers from Fort George who offered their support. Picture by Wendy Faux.

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