Centre stage for battle mural
The award winning Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre has added a massive new mural which has taken more than a year to complete.
Artist Chris Rutterford says the aim of the painting is to emphasise the “heartbeat of humanity” at the historic site and complement the visitor experience.
The stunning 2m by 30m mural occupies the centre’s courtyard in time for the 701st anniversary of the battle, and is the first artwork to make use of the space.
The Battle of Bannockburn centre is the first of its kind in the world featuring state of the art motion capture and interactive technology. Visitors are immersed in a 3D medieval world. They are also given the opportunity to command a division in the army of Bruce or Edward II and win or lose the famous battle.
Chris said: “As a proud Scot the battle of Bannockburn is something I’ve always wanted to paint. It’s a defining moment in Scottish history and such a powerful story.”
Chris has a track record of building huge crowd murals. In 2011, he painted a 20 metre Tam o’Shanter mural with a coven of witches chasing the drunken horseman .
Last year was a busy one for Chris. In addition to Bannockburn, he built a painting live from the Grassmarket in Edinburgh telling the 18th century story of the Hanging of Maggie Dickson.
Though the new painting is a serious work of art, for a battle picture it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Robert the Bruce in the picture is played by Charlie Allan from Saor Patrol. Both Charlie and other members of the Clanranald Trust were involved in the fight choreography for both the new and former visitor centres.
The mural will be on display until October 31.