Supporters young and old are banding together to lend a hand to a Kirriemuir campaign to create another memorable character for the wee red town.
The famous statues of Peter Pan and Bon Scott could soon be joined by Kirrie’s very own penguin as part of a Maggie’s Dundee project which will see a colony of colourful creatures invade the region this summer.
Organisers hope the latest local public art initiative will capture the public’s imagination in much the same way as the massive success of the Oor Wullie Bucket Trial.
A series of craft workshops are running at the Kirrie Connections hub in Bank Street this week so townsfolk can play their part in decorating the Kirrie contribution.
Local artist Maureen Crosbie, whose work includes a mosaic along part of Brechin’s multi-million pound flood prevention scheme, has put out a call for painters to participate.
Residents of Balhousie Lisden care home in Kirrie were among the first to take up the invitation on Monday.
Maureen said: “I’m thrilled to be asked to take part in the Penguin Parade, and very pleased with the design we have chosen for Kirrie’s community penguin.
“We’re hoping to keep it a secret as much as possible until the big reveal, but everyone who comes along will be able to contribute their own little bit.
“As part of the experience we also have a memory book to for everyone to sign, where people can leave a message or dedicate their contribution to a loved one.
“Special badges will also be awarded to those who get involved and we’re looking for anyone — young, old, talented or not to come along and have a go.”
The Maggie’s penguin will be at Kirrie Connections between 10am and 2pm daily until Friday for anyone to drop in and contribute.
Kirriemuir Community Council is raising funds to support the display and eventual purchase of the local penguin, and donations are welcome.
Graham Galloway, project co-ordinator for Kirrie Connections, said: “We are delighted to be involved in hosting Kirrie’s special penguin during the Easter holidays.
“Maureen is an incredibly enthusiastic artist who has already worked with all ages to create a colourful mosaic art project for us, based on stories from the older generation.
“It’s wonderful to see young and old come together to create something for the community,” he added.
Balhousie Lisden care home manager Madeana Laing said: “We enjoy regular craft sessions with youngsters from the local primary school and we know that working together on creative projects brings enormous benefits for both generations.
“Painting the Maggie’s penguin is a wonderful way to get everyone excited about this summer’s fundraising event and we are delighted to be part of this community experience.”
