Be functional

Sculptural responses to the natural environment can also have a functional aspect. Waymarkers, fences, bridges, shelters or seats can add value to a location through having an artistic input.

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• A U-shaped seat by Jim Buchanan creates a sheltered and contemplative space at Knockan where visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. It resembles a remodelled landform with 'living' turf walling on a stone base built into a natural hollow on the hillside.
  Cost Band D.

• Nigel Ross carved this four metre long sculptural seat from a single piece of oak with two interlocking flowing forms. This large abstract organic shape sits alongside his sculpture consisting of vertical tongues of oak.
  Cost Band C.

• A serpentine sculptural seat by Joe Smith provides fine views to Beinn Eighe. The traditional drystone wall tapers from just under a metre high to zero at the other end with a group of flags placed as through-stones to form seats.
  Cost Band C.

"My land art is about two key elements — the resonance of history, both of the land and its people; and the search for stillness from which to view this passing of time. In creating my land art installations and earthforms, I approach each place as a unique site. By watching and listening to the landscape (as a creation of people and place), I try to find the landscape process, or historical event, with the strongest resonance for today. I hope my work encourages people to be alive to the passing of time."

Jim Buchanan