Dumfries Explore The Multiverse
An abandoned open-cast coal mine transformed into landscape art
IN terms of countryside regeneration, Crawick Multiverse takes some beating. The site, a former open-cast coal mine, has seen total transformation into a spectacular artland and public amenity, with its design based around space, astronomy and cosmology.
More than 2000 boulders were excavated and now play a major role in defining the Multiverse’s landscape. What could have been an ugly blott on the otherwise beautiful scenery is now one of the area’s top attractions.
This is all due to the vision of landscape artist Charles Jenks, who was commissioned by the Duke of Buccleuch to re-develop the site near Sanquhar. He didn’t see a wasteland – he saw 22.7 hectares (55 acres) of potential.
The Multiverse – which means, in cosmic terms, a group of multiple universes – features a network of paths which lead you through features and landforms that represent the sun, universes, galaxies, comets, black holes and much more.
“The perspective varies throughout the elevations as you view the various landforms and their relationship to the surrounding land and skyscapes,” says Caroline Mcmillan, of the Crawick Multiverse Trust.
“There is no doubt the site looks fantastic on a bright clear day, and a climb to Belvedere, the highest point, offers spectacular views of the site itself, and the surrounding valley and beyond.
“However on a more dreich day, the Multiverse takes on a completely different perspective. Mist and moody skies create a stunning backdrop to the landforms and make for a very atmospheric visit.”
The 5000-seat amphitheatre is at the heart of the Multiverse, capturing the magic of a total eclipse by replicating its shapes and forms with a circle of boulders and ridges that represent the sun. And while it lends itself to theatrical performances, it has been used for a variety of other events, such as weddings, fitness classes and local community traditional events.