PICTURES: Visionary Marion Rhind spotted Invergordon mural trail potential with inspiration from half a world away
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AN Easter Ross "visionary" saw the potential for a mural trail in Invergordon after hearing how a similar venture in Tasmania had transformed a town.
Fast forward two decades and the vision of the late Marion Rhind is now being celebrated as Invergordon celebrates the 20th anniversary of its distinctive attraction.
The Invergordon Off the Wall charity and voluntary group which manages the mural trail project was formed in 2002 after Marion Rhind heard about how murals in Sheffield, Tasmania had transformed the town’s prospects while celebrating its local history.
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She immediately saw the potential for something similar in Invergordon and shared this idea with the local business association. That was the spark that created Invergordon Off the Wall with Marion the lead inspiration every step of the way.
She held the vision for the future benefits it could have for the Invergordon community and the local economy as a tourist attraction.
A community consultation saw over 75.5 per cent in favour of the bold project which aimed to revive community spirit and enhance civic pride while halting economic decline by rebranding the town as a destination for tourism.
The international mural town network inspired the group in the first place and has been a constant source of reference for what can be achieved in local communities when art is the focal point for regeneration.
The 20th anniversary of the Off the Wall project has been marked with the launch of an app which helps bring each mural to life.
