AN AWARD-WINNING East Lothian artist is partnering with Leuchie House as part of its upcoming sculpture trail in the county this summer – and has also launched its new artist hub.

The respite charity, located near North Berwick, is preparing to launch The Big Hare Trail across the town this summer as part of its celebrations for reaching 10 years as an independent charity.

Emily Hogarth has seen her bold designs and distinctive illustrations feature in global campaigns with Cadbury’s and Nivea.

She has also had work in the National Museum of Scotland.

Emily also designed the ‘pod’ waiting area in the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh.

She agreed to become an ambassador for the trail and will support Leuchie House to develop activities and materials that inspire and engage children and young people to get involved with the arts throughout the trail’s duration.

She also unveiled its official artist hub, a lodge at Whitekirk Hill, and will have her design feature on the hare of headline sponsor Simpson and Marwick.

She is also encouraging artists to submit their designs for the hares ahead of the deadline on Monday.

Selected designs will be featured, with artists receiving a £900 commission and the opportunity to work alongside a commercial sponsor.

Leuchie House: Image: Simon Grosset/Q Photography

Leuchie House: Image: Simon Grosset/Q Photography

Emily said: “When Leuchie House approached me about getting involved with The Big Hare Trail, I jumped at the chance.

“As well as showcasing the vibrant artistic culture that embodies East Lothian, it offers the perfect opportunity for family time.

“As a mum-of-three myself, I have no doubt the colourful hares will ignite the imaginations of children from all over and I’m delighted to be able to play a part in this.”

Whitekirk Hill will offer a public painting space where artists will be invited to paint their hares.

The public will then have the opportunity to take a sneak peak at the hares as they are being decorated.

Whitekirk Hill is home to The Orangery & Walled Terrace, an indoor children’s play area, a leisure facility and, soon to launch, environmentally conscious holiday lodges.

Emily Hogarth is partnering with Leuchie House on its upcoming Hare Trail

Emily Hogarth is partnering with Leuchie House on its upcoming Hare Trail

Simon Bath, general manager of Whitekirk Hill, said: “We are proud to support local charity Leuchie House by sponsoring the artist hub for The Big Hare Trail.

“We invite families to come and meet the hares as they are being created and are delighted to be a part of such an inclusive, family-friendly campaign that will encourage visitors back to East Lothian in the wake of the pandemic.”

Lana Bambridge, head of fundraising at Leuchie House, said: “Since launching The Big Hare Trail campaign, we have been overwhelmed at the interest and warm wishes received from the local community.

“It has been exciting to see the number of high-quality and varied designs being submitted and we’re hugely grateful to Whitekirk Hill for agreeing to host our talented artists in their gorgeous facilities.

“We’re over the moon to have Emily Hogarth’s support. Her creative ideas will certainly add that little bit of magic to inspire young minds.”

For more information, visit the bigharetrail.co.uk