Heartlands - Ben Y Vrackie and Cuilc
BY THE HEARTLANDS STITCHERS
Ben y Vrackie Journey StoneImage provided by The Heartlands Stitchers
Ben y Vrackie, Highland PerthshireImage provided by The Heartlands Stitchers
TELLING THE STORY OF THE HEARTLANDS PANEL
Kerstin is a retired GP who lives in Pitlochry. She loves all mountain sports so decided to embroider a classic view of her favourite hill, Ben y Vrackie as viewed from the Cuilc.
I have never done tapestry, and became involved to challenge myself to a sitting down/creative activity! I also love the idea of being part of a collaborative community, producing a unique artwork representing our area. I chose my piece of embroidery to represent Ben y Vrackie, the iconic mountain that stands over Pitlochry and is recognisable to locals and tourists alike.
It really marks the beginning of the proper Highlands. I love to spend my time hiking, running, biking and snowboarding in the hills (which is why a sitting-down activity was such a challenge!). I can see Ben y Vrackie from my house and regularly walk up it. The view from the top takes in Strathtay Valley as well as all the mountains to the North.
Kerstin of the Heartlands StitchersImage provided by The Heartlands Stitchers
Ben Y Vrackie and Cuilc Journey Stone SketchImage provided by The Heartlands Stitchers
Many thanks to the Heartland Stitchers, and to Kerstin, for sharing with us this incredible story behind their panel, created as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.
READ MORE STORIES FROM THE TAPESTRY OF THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS
Prior to the beginning of the stitching of each tapestry panel, each stitcher of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands was tasked with telling their interpretation of the 'Spirit of the Highlands and Islands' within a blank outline of a stone. The possibilities were truly endless - is it represented in the land? The people? A historical site? A favourite memory?
In any case, each journey stone represents the connection between each individual stitcher, their story, and their own sense, or 'spirit', of place. Discover more of the stories behind the journey stones of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands here.