Coming to the public galleries in Thurso and Wick is The Over the Hills & Far Away Exhibition showing the work from the 2006/7 Highland Council Exhibitions Units Craft Residency Project.

It features new work from ceramicist Hanne Mannheimer, who was based in Rosebank Primary, Nairn and glass artist Carole Robinson who was resident in Inverness Royal Academy.

Also showing is work created by the pupils during the residencies and new work by the participating makers from previous years, including Tim Johnson, Gilly Langton and Rachel Higgins.

The craft residency project covered all eight areas of the Highlands and placed makers in schools to work with pupils and teachers. The pupils themselves selected the maker to work with them. Makers created a body of new work in response to their residency and the location.

The project is funded by the Scottish Arts Council and the Highland Council.

Showing alongside the exhibition is selected work by Highland makers that has been created in response to other Highland school projects. These include the Golden Broom tartan from Mulbuie Primary school and the Highland Constellation bound book and Star Jewellery collection, featuring work by Laura West, Beth Legg, Lucy Woodley and Gilly Langton.

The exhibition runs at The Swanson Gallery, Thurso from 23 February to 29 March and can be seen at the St Fergus Gallery from 10 May to 7 June. Admission is free.

Swanson opening times; M, T, W 1 to 5.30pm, Fr 1 to 8pm, Sat 10am to 1pm, Closed Thurs and Sun
St Fergus opening times: M, T, Th 12 to 5pm, Fr 2 to 8pm, Sat 10.30am to 1pm, Closed Wed & Sun

Further information:
Swanson Gallery 01847 896357
Area Cultural Officer 01349 885114