Stiring Stories – Smith Art Gallery and Museum

At this time of year, we tend to think about our identity as Scots and citizens of Stirling. How do we differ from citizens of other Scottish cities?
One thing which has distinguished Stirling is the regiment of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, now part of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, but for a century, the regiment of the city, with its headquarters in Stirling Castle. At the Smith, three different artists have looked at this history, in the Golden Thread exhibition. The Golden Thread is that which runs through Stirling’s history from the time of the formation of the Argylls in 1881, onwards.
Yvonne Taylor has painted the Scottish landscape, Frank McNab has painted the story of the Scottish soldier and literature, whilst artist and couturier Ann Tocoda has painted, written poems and created a fabulous green gown which references the history of the regiment itself.
Shown here is the painting ‘Piper’s Pride’ by Ann Tocoda. All of the clothing worn by the young girl is inspired by the historical uniform of the Argylls. The work underlines the contribution of women, who as wives and daughters, have sustained and supported the Scottish regiments. The exhibition runs until 20 January.