It is full steam ahead for a unique Fife arts event.
When railway station buildings hit the buffers they stood empty until artists and heritage buffs breathed new life into them.
Now back on the right tracks, seven stations will be in the frame for The Artline Open Doors Weekend on April 29 and 30.
The weekend will showcase the painters, makers and poets who now use the historic station buildings.
In addition, there will be the chance for visitors to explore nearby museums and galleries.The weekend is also a unique opportunity to discover the stories behind the history and restoration of the buildings.
Travelling by train, visitors will be able to visit all the venues in a day.
Director of project, Kinghorn artist Lynette Gray said: “This section of the East Coast mainline is a real gem, not just for the beautiful coastal scenery but for the lovely stations along the route.
“The weekend is a unique opportunity to see inside these stunning spaces and meet the creative communities that are the custodians of the buildings.
“I’m delighted to see more artists getting involved in this event, as well as providing a wonderful opportunity for visitors to explore the heritage of the area.”
Venues include:
- North Queensferry. Karen Trotter and Lucie Macaulay will be exhibiting artwork. The hub has recently been refurbished to its original Victorian style. Historic images will be exhibited alongside memorabilia of the Forth Bridge.
- Inverkeithing. A poster exhibition of rail art and writing by Sheena Berry and Maureen Sangster will be on show.
- Burntisland. The station house contains the new studio of Susy Kirk and the old platform building houses studios for Sally Grant, Beth Legg, Grace Girvan, Ebba Goring, Gingerbread Designs and Sophie McKay Knight.
- Kinghorn. The upper floor contains Lynette and Douglas Gray’s studios, while the ladies waiting room is a gallery hosting Kinghorn Historical Society’s exhibition.
- Kirkcaldy .Visitors to the Galleries can view paintings by some of the biggest names in Scottish art including William McTaggart and the Scottish Colourists. Also on show is new work by Jeremy Hutchison.
- Ladybank. On platform two is the Kirsty Lorenz Studio while Station House is home to the Off the Rails Arthouse.
- Cupar – The exhibition space in Cupar Heritage Centre tells the story of the Burgh of Cupar.
The Artline Open Doors venues are open from 10am to 4pm with the exception of Kirkcaldy Galleries, which is open Saturday 9.30am to 4pm and Sunday 12 noon to 4pm. Venues are free to visit.
Details can be found at www.theartline.co.uk.
