'Sensing Magnus' - Paintings by Russell Gilmour at the Orkney Museum

Saturday (11 December) sees the opening of the new Christmas exhibition at the Orkney Museum, Tankerness House, Kirkwall.

'Sensing Magnus' is a display of paintings by local artist, Russell Gilmour, who has spent many hours in the cathedral, not only painting the views in all seasons and lights but also bringing the atmosphere of the place into his work, as he explains:

“In my work, I seek to evoke that which the camera cannot see. St Magnus Cathedral is that special place for me to explore the spirit and vitality of its creation and its enduring ability to be that special place within us.”

Exhibition Officer, Tom Muir, is relieved that the exhibition can finally go ahead:

"I have seen Russell painting in the cathedral many times, and would take a sideways glance at what he was doing as I went past. I was impressed by his work and by the sheer variety of the paintings.

"I was delighted when he asked to have an exhibition, which was originally planned for last Christmas. Obviously that did not happen, so it is great to be able to show it this year instead.

"His work brings a warm glow into the cold, midwinter days. As I am sure that many people would love to buy one of Russell's wonderful St Magnus paintings as a Christmas present, so we have taken the decision to let people take them away during the show and to replace them with other pieces.

"I am sure that they would bring great joy to anyone lucky enough to find one in their Christmas stocking."

'Sensing Magnus' runs from 11th December to 29th January 2022. The Orkney Museum is open Monday - Saturday, 10:30-12:30, 1:30-5:00. Admission is free.