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Early Medieval carved stones at Kilmartin Glen, Argyll and the Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
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Symbols Live on

By Meg Macleod

Journey stone design depicting a symbol, with intertwined swirling elements and a butterfly at the centre Journey stone design depicting a symbol, with intertwined swirling elements and a butterfly at the centre
Image provided by Meg MacLeod

Symbols live on..

They bring the past forward, reminding us to remember things we may have forgotten. I wonder about the people who incised the stones with mythical creatures spirals and circles. What stories do they want us to hear?

The blue butterfly which is here in the north in summertime inspires me - its colour, its fragility and ability to survive in harsh conditions...like the people here.

Many thanks to Meg MacLeod 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 of 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.