History of Dumfries and River Nith turned into work of art

The history of Dumfries and the River Nith have been turned into a work of art.

The latest addition to the People’s Project’s amazing transformation of Castledykes Park into an “outdoor classroom for all” is a tableau of nine panels created by artist Jo McSkimming.

Each panel has a text board giving information on the paintings and directing visitors to other areas of Dumfries and the region. The graphic work on the boards was by Miranda Cloy of Signcraft.

Visitors can see it in the Sunken Gardens at the park which lived up to its reputation at the official launch when it was flooded by a deluge of rain.

Anne Simpson of the People’s Project said: “The history tableau replaces a ghastly concrete wall which was a remnant of the time when the garden was a sewage works.

(Jim McEwan)

“This project has been a labour of love for many months by some very talented people.

“Many thanks to Andrew Nicholson, the council’s archaeologist who kept us right with the information. Hardie’s Engineering of Dumfries and RH Construction of Annan have done a fantastic job erecting the framework and the panels. The whole project was financed and co-ordinated by the People’s Project.”

Anne added: “During the pandemic, we conducted a survey of Castledykes Park and became determined to bring this beautiful old park back to its former glory. Listening to the people, the idea of creating an outdoor classroom for all came into being.

“We will continue with our aim of making Castledykes Park an asset for our town and an interesting place for people to visit. Castledykes is a wonderful place for local people and visitors to learn about the important role it has played in Scottish history.

“The People’s Project would like to thank the people of Dumfries and beyond who buy our annual calendar as this is our main source of income. Without your support, these projects would not be possible.”