Scotland’s new £1million work of land art, the Crawick Multiverse, was officially unveiled during a spectacular launch event on Sunday 21 June.
The new ‘cosmic landscape’ near Sanquhar in Dumfries and Galloway, which has transformed a former open cast coal mine into a stunning visitor attraction, was celebrated with an unforgettable day of music and performance.
The launch of the new 55-acre artland and public amenity – inspired by the themes of space, astronomy and cosmology; created by the world-renowned Charles Jencks; and funded by the Duke of Buccleuch – was marked with a programme featuring music, poetry and performance.
Visitors on the day were taken ‘on a journey through space on time’ through the unique artland by Alex Rigg and Oceanallover using dance-theatre, sculpted costumes and a cast of 30 performers.
The stunning work of art will now be prepared for its official public opening on Friday 10 July.
Charles Jencks, the creative mind behind the Multiverse, said: “The Multiverse celebrates the surrounding Scottish countryside and its landmarks, looking outwards and back in time to present a difference view of the situation we are in. Its view is much more open than, say, that of a clockwork universe, and much more interesting – a different sort of landscape.
“I’m delighted with the response from the audience this weekend and look forward to visitors enjoying the work for many years to come.”
“Both audience and performers will pass through the Crawick Multiverse like a comet passing between the stars and planets, tails streaming away from the sun on a journey whose beginning and end are unknown.”
The Duke of Buccleuch, who funded the land art, said: “Charles’ vision has transformed what was once a barren wasteland in need of love and attention into a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating landscape that will hopefully benefit the local area.
“Today’s launch was a resounding success, with memorable performances by Alex and Oceanallover, which were thoroughly enjoyed by all. To see our first visitors enjoying and appreciating the Multiverse is fantastic, and I hope we’ll welcome many more when it opens officially in July.”
From Friday 10 July, Crawick Multiverse will be open to the public from 10am-6pm until the end of August; from 10am-4pm in September and October, and from March until June. Between November and February, there will be pedestrian access only.
Tickets are £5 for adults (£4 for concessions), £2 for children aged between five and 16, with under-5s admitted free of charge. Family passes for two adults and two children, are priced at £12.50.
