George Bain is often referred to as ‘the father of modern Celtic design’, as he devoted much of his life to studying the techniques used by the ancients to produce their designs and in working out these methods created a resurgence of interest in this type of art.

Groam House museum in Rosemarkie will host this one-year exhibition of his work alongside sculptured pictish stones, decorated metalwork and jewellery of the kind inspirational to Bain, and which are loaned by the National Museums of Scotland.

To ensure the best access to the work the museum are creating two exhibitions. Theory into Practice is the static exhibition and Highland Homecoming is the touring exhibition which will visit five locations: Thurso, Wick, Helmsdale, Drumnadrochit and Kingnussie. These will feature fascinating insights into Bain’s work and the techniques he employed, including portraits, watercolours, etchings and importantly his intricate Celtic designs.

A comprehensive programme of workshops and lectures will also highlight the work, offering two workshops in each location to primary schools and an evening workshop for the general public. The general aim of these sessions is to pass on the principles of Celtic art as defined by Bain’s original techniques and teachings.

The static exhibition, Theory into Practice: George Bain and his Celtic Art Revival, opened at Groam House Museum on 1st May and will run until Easter 2008.  See www.groamhouse.org.uk for more details.