Work by beloved Nairn Academy art lecturer set to support Highland Hospice
An art exhibition featuring the works of a former Nairn Academy art lecturer is on show in Inverness with proceeds going to Highland Hospice.
The display, titled An Exhibition of Stitched Textiles, presents a stunning series of landscapes and still lifes crafted from thread, wool, and fabric by the late Sheena Neil.
Hosted at Eden Court, the exhibit has been curated by Sheena’s husband, Jimmy Neil, with the help of Highland Hospice fundraiser Jenna Hayden - who has a personal connection to the story behind the exhibition.
She said: “Sheena was my first art teacher at Nairn Academy, and her classes were always my favourite. She ignited my passion for the subject, leading me to study Costume Design for Film, Theatre and TV at Edinburgh College of Art, before pursuing a career in dressmaking and design. I eventually opened my own wedding dress shop in Nairn.”
Although Jenna has now moved on to work as a fundraiser, her love for art remains. She has led both the Hospice’s art trails, ‘Go Nuts’ and ‘The Great Heilan Coo Trail’ and recently launched ‘The Highland HeArt Trail’, which will run next year.
“None of this would have been possible without Sheena’s support and enthusiasm all those years ago,” she adds.
Sheena was born and raised in Glasgow where she attended Bellahouston Academy and later Glasgow School of Art, graduating in 1969. On completion of her teacher training course at Jordanhill College, she began her career in Paisley.
In 1976 she successfully applied for a position in Inverness High School so she upped sticks and headed north with her husband and two children. Her career subsequently took her to Nairn Academy where former pupils fondly remember her as an inspirational teacher. Sheena sadly died from breast cancer in 2005, aged 58, having received care from Highland Hospice.
Jenna commented: “I was so sad to hear that Sheena had lost her battle with cancer, and it was such a delight when Jimmy got in touch about this exhibition. Sheena was incredibly talented and meant a lot to me. I encourage everyone to visit and experience this remarkable display of her creativity.”
Sheena’s husband, Jimmy Neil, expressed his gratitude, saying: “It’s an honour to showcase Sheena’s work in this special way while raising funds for Highland Hospice, which holds a special place in my heart after the care Sheena received.
“I’m grateful for Jenna’s support, given her connection to Sheena. It makes the event even more meaningful and personal.”
‘An Exhibition of Stitched Textiles’ runs until August 30, in Eden Court’s 1st Gallery Circle, with all proceeds donated to Highland Hospice.
