Light at the end of the tunnel for Alloway Railway Tunnel Project
Exciting new artwork has been installed in Alloway Railway Tunnel (ART). The dramatic finale of along-anticipated mural scene has finally been revealed, capturing the heart-pounding climax of Tam o’Shanter as Tam and Meg flee in terror across the bridge, pursued by a frenzy of witches.
Conceived in mural artist Chris Rutterford’s imagination more than 13 years ago, this pivotal scene now stands vividly realised, marking an emotional and creative milestone as a stunning visual interpretation of the legendary poem’s unforgettable ending.
Chris said, “This iconic Tam o’ Shanter scene of Meg and Tam fleeing toward the Brig o’ Doon has been a joy to do and I hope it brings joy and magic to the visitors too. For me, this is the pinnacle of the mural project and one of the best artworks I have ever done, it had to be right, after all it’s the showstopper at the banquet and the real Brig o ’Doon is only a few hundred meters away! I am really chuffed with how it’s turned out and seeing the reactions of the visitors so far reminds me why we have all put the long hours into this project.
Putting art in public spaces is always exciting but I absolutely love how this project has turned out. We have breathed new soul into what was a neglected unloved space. It’s amazing to see the joy this mural brings, visitors are happy and uplifted and the quality shines through.
I’ve involved the community in hands on painting throughout the process, we wanted them to feel like they owned it. It really feels like the experience and fraternity of our mural workshops and the amazing mural experience we have made in our tunnel will echo for decades to come. The passion and enthusiasm we encounter daily really is hugely gratifying. We’ve enveloped everyone in a mural experience that will forever be remembered.
I just hope this new scary scene I’ve painted at the end of the tunnel doesn’t give any of the younglings nightmares!’
Ron Ireland, Chair of ART said, “Chris’s talent is limitless! It was important to get this scene right, as it’s such a world-renowned poem with an iconic ending. It’s the scene Chris will be remembered for more than any other and he has executed it beautifully. As ever, he has put his heart and soul into this work and it’s beyond our expectations. For the start of the chase scene, he worked with hundreds of the local community in the ‘Cutty Sark Centre’ challenging, inspiring and encouraging them to create a fantastic piece of art. What’s been achieved is something the people are exceptionally proud of in the area.”
The new artwork was revealed at a special event to celebrate Burns Night on 25 January. The ‘Wee Jaunt & Jig ’involved a guided tour of the mural by the trustees, an opportunity to meet the artist and some Burns characters that are illustrated in the mural; Tam o’Shanter and Souter Johnie! The Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra organised the first ceilidh in the tunnel and attendees enjoyed some music, dancing and singing by the young performers. Children enjoyed our first Scavenger Hunt.
Ron Ireland said, “It’s been great to celebrate the latest milestone on this special day with Chris, the team, sponsors and local people. An amazing legacy has been created to remember Robert Burns in his own birthplace, and what better day to do it! I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in this part of the project for their hard work and creativity.
“Overall, this project has been bigger than we thought it would be and now completion is within touching distance. We still have lots more to look forward to with Chris’s skilful artwork creating the final scene in the mural; ‘The Last Train to Butlins.’This will feature a steam train and hundreds of people waiting on the platform waiting to start their holiday in Ayrshire. The railway and all it represents is a part of our heritage that we’re really proud of, so we are saving the best till last!”
If people would like their portrait in this final mural scene, they can order their portrait on Chris Rutherford’s website: AllowayTunnel Mural | Chris Rutterford
