Community mosaic unveiled
There was a poignant moment on Saturday for Andrew Baxter who, until the local authority elections last week, was one of four councillors for the Fort William and Ardnamurchan ward.
Mr Baxter, who did not seek re-election for the ward, had been invited to perform the official unveiling of the Creag Mhor Mosaic in Onich.
Mr Baxter was invited to carry out the unveiling by members of Nether Lochaber Community Association, who described him as its ‘most supportive’ elected Highland councillor for many years and someone who originally helped to inaugurate the association in 2017.
The project, initiated by the association together with the community of North Ballachulish and Onich, consists of a central mosaic created by Helen Michie Ceramics which is located outside Craig Mhor burial ground in Onich.
The mosaic also incorporates panels designed and created by members of the community.
The central mosaic created by Ms Michie depicts the old Telford Church and the Glencoe hills. Commenting afterwards, Mr Baxter said: ‘I was delighted to be invited to unveil the mosaic outside the Craig Mhor burial ground in Onich. This is a project initiated by Nether Lochaber Community Association positioned alongside the National Cycle Network.
‘The mosaic is a stunning work by Helen Michie with panels designed and created by community members. It’s just a short walk along the road if you park your car next to the picnic site by the petrol station.’ Helen Michie added: ‘A huge thank you to everyone who took part in the community mosaic workshops and to Nether Lochaber Community Association for asking me to be involved in this fantastic project.
‘Also thank you to SUSTRANS National Cycle Network and its Arts Roots Funding for Public Art. This is a brilliant fund for communities to access if they are on the cycle network throughout Scotland for original and unique public art linking to their community.’