Mural artist Chris Rutterford has unveiled the first portraits he has created for the crowd scene; ‘Last Train to Butlins,’ at a special ‘Meet the Artist’ event in Alloway Tunnel on Friday 8 May.
Chris said, “The mural is a fabulous, joyous by-product of the voyage we have all been on together. I’ve issued a personal invitation to everyone who is featured in this latest scene, and it will be a special moment in time sharing a unique experience with all the people featured in the mural who have never met but are connected by the mural.
Tartan tourism has always flowed into the tunnel, when it was the main arrival point by rail in the area. The tunnel was a jumping spot to the famous Butlins in Ayrshire. The last train to the Butlins at Alloway left in 1968, when the Maidens and Dunure Light Railway line finally closed that year. We want to commemorate that moment and celebrate those exciting times. This new crowd mural at the end of the tunnel depicts the joyous moment the revellers climb aboard the magical train to Butlins. I’ve worked hard to make sure the community are the heroes in the stories.”
Bill McKinlay, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said “We are offering people the opportunity to have their own or their loved ones’ portraits hand painted into the Alloway Tunnel mural. These portraits are what makes our mural unique and as you can see from our photos of this new crowd scene, Chris is a superb portrait Artist. The quality of his artwork is phenomenal, and he puts his heart and soul into everything he does.
“The mural is a blend of glorious professional artwork alloyed with a strong community element; over 2500 local people have taken part in the project so far. Real imagination and collaboration are creating a truly unique work of art. We’re proud of our involvement in this project, transforming the Tunnel into a more sustainable community asset for the future. It’s a hidden gem of an attraction that offers a truly memorable experience for visitors to enjoy."
We are still on track for finishing the mural this autumn. The final wall section will feature the steam train and more passengers to complete the crowd scene. We will then turn our attention to the ceiling vaults and work with art pupils from Carrick Academy and other local amateur artists in Ayrshire, to complete this incredible 360 degrees art installation.
There is still time to buy a portrait. The link to make a booking is;
Alloway Tunnel Mural | ChrisRutterford
The tunnel is open every day and it’s free to visit. We’re on a cycle path so it’s safe to walk, wheel or cycle. We are situated opposite the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and close to Rozelle and Bellisle parks, and other local shops and attractions
If you would like a guided tour of the mural. ‘From Idea to Impact: The Story of Transforming the Tunnel,’ offers insight into the artwork, local heritage and the people who have helped bring the tunnel to life. It’s a memorable way to explore this hidden gem.
You can book here:
Monthly Guided Tours
