A striking mural of Sir Walter Scott was installed in Bank Close, Galashiels recently, the fourth piece of street art to be created as part of the Energise Galashiels Trust Build a Better Gala project, funded by South of Scotland Enterprise and Scottish Borders Council.
Galashiels firm, Cameron, Strachan, and Yuill Architects, worked with local artists and community members to develop the design, which was hand-painted on the gable end wall by members of the team from the nationally renowned Global Street Art. The Global Street Art aim is to create new conversation around public space and participation, which aligns with the Trust’s vision of creating a more vibrant, welcoming, and confident community for Galashiels.
Debbie Paterson, Energise Galashiels Trust volunteer said: “We are keen to highlight Sir Walter Scott’s connection to Galashiels and thought a big, bold wall mural would do just that. The response from the public has been brilliant and people are enjoying the six murals we’ve installed throughout the town. Each mural has its own story, but collectively they add year-round vibrancy.”
The location of the mural was chosen as it sits opposite a sculptured panel, erected by Baillie George Hope-Tait, mounted on the Royal Bank of Scotland gable end wall, commemorating his visit to the building before it became a branch of the bank. Scott was a friend and neighbour to the town, making frequent visits for both business and social purposes.
The striking black and white artwork is the second mural to be unveiled in the town this year, joining the Galashiels Heartland of the Borders artwork located on Douglas Bridge. Energise Galashiels Trust encourage everyone to share photos of the works on their social media, tagging the town’s social channels.
