Alasdair Gray mural could get listed status
The work by the celebrated artist is in a visitor centre in North Lanarkshire.
A mural by one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers and artists could soon be recognised with listed status.
Alasdair Gray, author of Lanark, painted the Scottish Wildlife Mural at the Palacerigg Visitor Centre in Cumbernauld in 1974.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the leading public body for protecting the country’s history and heritage, is seeking views from the public on proposals to list the centre at Category B because of Gray’s 20th century artwork at the entrance foyer.
Category B is given to buildings of special architectural or historic interest that are major examples of a particular period, style or building type.
The mural features many of his commonly used motifs, including the Tree of Life and the embracing figures of Adam and Eve in the lower left of the scene.
It was commissioned by naturalist, writer and journalist David Stephen, who was closely involved in the planning of the visitor centre and its emphasis on wildlife conservation and education.
It had to be restored in 2001 by the artist and his assistant Robert Salmon after it suffered water damage.
Although most famous for his writing, Gray began as a visual artist and studied design and mural painting at Glasgow School of Art from 1952 to 1957.
After graduation, he was commissioned to paint murals in and around Glasgow while making a living as an artist, teacher and writer.
As the mural is embedded in the fabric of the visitor centre, the proposed listing would cover the building to protect the cultural significance of the mural.
“Listing is a way of recognising and celebrating what makes our built heritage special and ensuring this is taken into account in future decisions.
“We’re keen that people have an opportunity to have their say as part of this process, so we encourage anyone with an interest in the mural to take part in our consultation.”
The public consultation will run until June 28 and can be accessed on the HES website.
Members of the public are encouraged to send in their views and comments by emailing designations@hes.scot or contacting HES through the Heritage Portal.
