The Ghillie Dubh

Painting of the Month for October is ‘The Ghillie Dubh’. This artistic creation reveals a delightful aspect of a small village in Wester Ross, Scotland, namely Inverewe on the shores of Loch Ewe.

The artist has used a lively palette of acrylic paints to capture the vibrant coloration of this Wester Ross landscape. Framed by a light blue sky, and the tawny and russet hills lining the coast, two white-walled houses sit snugly in the corner of the hamlet, the fishing boats sitting casually nearby.
Helen has drawn inspiration from artistic schools such as the Scottish Colourists and French Impressionists, yet adding her own distinctive touch in the deployment of the colour palette and eye for little details, which add much to the overall effect of the artwork. She has often drawn creative inspiration from family holidays, such as those staying at a cottage located close by. The ‘Ghillie Dubh’ is the red-roofed house that was used for a time as a cosy cafe. The name itself refers to a kind-hearted male fairy, who was devoted to the care of children.

The picturesque village of Inverasdale sits in a sheltered nook close to Poolewe and the delights of Inverewe Botanic Gardens. It nestles into the small road that runs as far as Cove at the end of the peninsula. This overlooks Loch Ewe with a stunning landscape that includes the dramatic profile of mountains such as An Teallach.

This stunning but remote area was of great importance during World War Two. This was due to the presence of the Atlantic Fleet, which operated the convoys from Loch Ewe to far flung and dangerous places such as Arkhangelsk and Murmansk. There can now be found a touching memorial to the brave souls who confronted shocking weather and enemy action to bring much-needed succour to the Russian people. The high price paid is illustrated by the tragic loss of the US Liberty ship SS William S Welch. On a dreadfully stormy night in February 1944, this ship ran aground in the local bay, with the loss of most of her crew.

Helen’s painting celebrates both the sheer beauty of the locality and the rugged spirit of those who continue to make a living in such a landscape.

Patrick McConnell , October 2019 patmactravel@gmail.com