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‘Spirit of The Annan’

New public art centrepiece named

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By Zac Hannay
Annan and Eskdale
‘Spirit of The Annan’
SCULPTURE SKETCH . . . this sketch shows what ‘Spirit of the Annan’ will look like. It depicts a Kelpie barging into the Jubilee Bridge and draws inspiration from the bridges lost in the 2021 floods, the mythology of the Kelpie, and the surrounding area

ANNAN The History Town Group were thrilled to announce the winning name for the town’s new public art centrepiece this week.

After receiving an overwhelming number of entries and much deliberation by the community judging panel, the unanimous decision was made on Tuesday, January 7.

The new name, ‘Spirit of The Annan’, was submitted by John Currie of Annan, whose thoughtful choice represents both the power of the Annan River and the people of Annan.

Mr Currie explained his inspiration for his name choice, saying: “The name reflects the spirit of the river that has shaped Annan’s history and the strength of its community.”

The official prize-giving ceremony will take place on Sunday February 16 between 12 pm and 3 pm, during the final ‘Forging Our History’ event at the Corner House Hotel function room.

ATHT extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the naming competition and contributed their creative ideas to help define this new historic landmark.

From this week forward, Annan’s Public Art Centrepiece will proudly bear the name Spirit of The Annan, a fitting tribute to the town’s rich heritage and bright future.

To celebrate and continue building this landmark project, ATHT invites the community to their ‘Forging Our History’ workshop on Sunday January 26 with renowned blacksmith sculptor Nathan Robinson.

This will take place at the Anglers, Annan from 12 pm to 4 pm.

You will be able to join the group for the chance to forge your own unique piece of metal that will be incorporated into the Spirit of The Annan sculpture. Free tickets are available now on Eventbrite.

Local artist Michelle Martin from NorthStone Art and Jewellery will also be in attendance running a creative arts session for children and young people. This will be taking place in the Anglers Function Room. The session is part of the ongoing Myths and Legends of Annan Creative Art Competition, which runs until January 31.

The Spirit of The Annan project has many more events and fundraising initiatives planned for 2025, as ATHT works to raise £100,000 to bring the iconic sculpture to life.

  • To get involved, volunteer, or host a fundraising event, please contact: Gail McPhillips, development officer at [email protected]

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