Let’s celebrate our natural wonders the John Muir way
An exhibition of nature photography is being held in East Lothian to mark the tenth anniversary of the John Muir Way.
The work of photographer Sharon McMenemy-Khan will be on display at John Muir’s Birthplace in Dunbar as part of events to celebrate the coast-to-coast walking and cycling route, inspired by the world famous environmental philosopher and conservationist.
“City Slickers in a Smart Countryside” looks to explore the need for nature in a metropolitan region and how rural wonders can be more accessible with technology. The photographs, featuring views seen along the route, aim to capture the natural wonder of Scotland prized by Muir.
Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “What a fantastic time to visit the wonderful John Muir’s Birthplace and learn more about the man and how he took his early inspiration from the Dunbar area.
"It’s great to see that his legacy continues to inspire and I hope this exhibition of Sharon’s stunning photographs encourages more people to make their way along the John Muir Way, spend some time enjoying East Lothian, and learn more about one of our most famous sons.”
Traversing central Scotland from Helensburgh in the west to Dunbar in the east, the 134-mile routes celebrates Muir’s legacy in his country of birth and as America’s “father of national parks”.
The route symbolically passes through Scotland’s own first national park, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, connecting walkers with nature and green spaces on a journey through the country’s landscapes, history and heritage.
The exhibition runs until April 28 (Wed-Sat, 10am-5pm and Sun, 1pm-5pm), with an opportunity to meet the artist, Sharon McMenemyKhan, on Sunday from 3.30pm.
A guided walk of “John Muir’s Dunbar” will also take place on Sunday 2-3.30pm. The event is free, and suitable for ages eight and over, but must be booked in advance via the link on the Birthplace website.