Shoreline

By Lesley Newnham

An artistic tribute to finding a sense of place along the shorelines of Lochaber
Image provided by Lesley Newnham

The journey stone I have created, was inspired by the rocks found at the boundary between the sea and land. The mix of lichens, moss and sea thrift are represented in a variety of stitches. Walking the beach looking at these rocks and the islands of Eigg, Rum and Skye gives me a sense of place. This grounds me to the environment and gives a feeling of belonging.

Many thanks to Lesley Newnham for sharing with us the story behind her journey stone, created as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.

WHAT IS A JOURNEY STONE?

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.