Highlands and Islands Airports Limited has commissioned a prominent Highland artist to produce a painting for permanent display at Inverness Airport as part of the Inverness Gateway Art Project.
 
James Hawkins, who lives and works in Rhue, near Ullapool, was selected for the commission following consultation with airport staff. His work will be the centrepiece of an exhibition in the airport terminal showcasing the work of artists working and living in the Highlands.

The Inverness Airport arts initiative is a development of the airport’s gateway project and is principally funded by the Scottish Arts Council National Lottery Fund with additional funding from Arts and Business New Partners, Inverness and Nairn Enterprise, The Highland Council and Writers in Scotland.

A graduate of the Ruskin School of Drawing in Oxford and Wimbledon, James has enjoyed a successful career working from Rhue for 25 years. His expressionistic landscapes have brought the splendour of the Scottish Highlands to exhibitions across Europe.
 
Highlands and Islands Airports Limited is currently in talks with other Highland artists regarding exhibiting work at the terminal as part of a temporary exhibition. If the exhibition is successful it may lead to the terminal playing host to a rolling programme of exhibitions. This would ensure that users of Inverness Airport are constantly welcomed by the work of established and up-and-coming artists from the region.
 
James Hawkins said: “This is a fantastic project and one that I’m extremely proud to be part of. The scenes available to paint in the Highlands are limitless and my love of the area has never dwindled.”
 
Caroline Storey, Highlands and Islands Airports’ arts project co-ordinator said: “The proposals entered for the commission were of an outstanding standard. HIAL staff were involved in the consultation process and made the final choice. The enthusiasm of the staff in the project has been extremely encouraging. The initiative gives us a great opportunity to interact with the local community and allows the local community to get involved with art.”
 
Sheena Mitchell, Inverness Airport terminal manager, said: “The arts initiative has been a wonderful success. It has allowed us to give something back to the community that supports us whilst also creating a unique ambience within the airport for the travellers that pass through here.”

A spokesperson for the Scottish Arts Council said: “The Inverness Gateway Art Project is a commendable endeavour which will showcase the range of art being produced in the Highlands to both visitors and local residents alike. The various commissions that are part of the project will enhance the environment of the airport as well as give the international travelling community an insight into a vibrant artistic culture that exists in Scotland”.