ARTISTS from across the globe will return to their “wee magical island of Dunbar” as an international art competition gets under way next week.
The European Land Art Festival and Stone Stacking Championships starts on Tuesday and runs until next Sunday (July 20).
The event not only brings artists from across the world to East Lothian but also gives budding artists the chance to get outdoors and experience art in nature.
James Craig Page, who was involved with the John Muir Stone Stacking Challenge, which would lead to the creation of the European Stone Stacking Championships, was once again looking forward to the event.
He explained what made the area special and the ideal place for the natural art.
READ MORE: Thousands flock to Dunbar for European Land Art Festival and Stone Stacking Championships
He told the Courier: “We just happen to have the best beaches, rocks and geology.
“All the artists are consistently amazed at the selection of stones they have got to work with; that’s what makes the event.
“The colours from Dunbar rocks put into the art just resonates with them.
“They love coming back to their own wee spot and creating something new.
“It becomes their own wee magical island of Dunbar.
“It is a really beautiful thing to see as they recognise the rocks from last year.”
An art exhibition featuring the work of James Brunt, Jon Foreman, Michael Grab, Sterling Gregory, Pontus Jansson, Laurence Winram and Mr Page is already under way at John Muir’s Birthplace on the town’s High Street.
Then, on the opening day, there will be a sandcastle building competition at Dunbar’s East Beach, with the alternative of a stone balancing competition.
The following day, attention switches to a pop-up exhibition at Dukes of West Barns, as well as the chance to try stone balancing and a mandala workshop.
Next Thursday (July 17) brings art lovers to Lochend Woods for artist-led workshops before a community beach day at Belhaven Bay the following day.
Finally, on July 19 and 20, it is time for the European Stone Stacking Championships at Bayswell Beach.
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Mr Page, who thanked Dunbar Community Council, Dunbar and East Linton Area Partnership, and Viridor for their support, was looking forward to welcoming artists from not only the British Isles but also from Switzerland and the USA.
He said: “I think when people participate in land art and stone balancing, it is very good for connecting with nature in a deeper way.
“In doing that, it definitely relaxes a person.
“Hours spent in nature can sometimes pass like minutes and you always feel better afterwards for it.
“The smiles on the faces are very indicative of how good it is.”
Go to elafest.com for more details.
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