Artist captures ‘soul of Perth’ in ‘amazing’ painting of city

Local people say they are humbled to be immortalised

Business owners, charity bosses and well-known local characters say they are “humbled” to be immortalised in a striking new painting of Perth.

The remarkable artwork by Rob Hain gives a colourful and quirky bird’s eye view of the Fair City.

Hidden among the familiar landmarks, such as the concert hall and St John’s Kirk, is a wealth of detail that will tickle anyone with a knowledge of the area.

Prints went on sale last week in aid of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society (RSGS), whose chief executive Mike Robertson commissioned the piece.

Mr Hain spent three days photographing the city before returning to his studio in Selkirk to begin work.

“The soul of Perth is to be found in its people,” he said. “Whether it’s the Kilt Run or the Tay Descent or some equally exhausting event, the people of Perth seem up for it.”

In an attempt to capture its unique character, Mr Hain has included the city’s annual Kilt Run in full swing, with competitors running past dragon boats on the River Tay.

Elsewhere, retired architect Barbel Roerig, better known as Scooter Gran, zips through the city centre, while a hot air balloon takes off in the distance.

Local minister Scott Burton – a keen kayaker – is depicted standing outside St Matthew’s Church on Tay Street with paddle in hand. Mr Burton, who said he plans to hang a print in the church vestry, said his inclusion was “humble, encouraging and heart-warming” and it was the icing on the cake after a difficult £850,000 refurbishment of the church.

“With a small team of wonderful, hardworking volunteers we got there,” he said. “So Rob including my image in this way is, I hope, a tribute to all who gave so much to take things forward.”

Right in the centre of the painting behind the Courier office on George Street is the Old Ship Inn, said to be the oldest licensed premises in Perth.

However, Mr Hain has taken some artistic licence, having them face the wrong way to fit them in the picture — The smugglers’ vessel which inspired the pub can be seen making its way along the Tay.

Licensee Tina McLaren said: “I think this picture is just amazing.

“We’re on Skinnergate, which is off the High Street and tends to be forgotten. To be at the centre of this painting is a real honour for us.”

Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance also features in the top right corner, sitting on top of the notorious Kinnoull Street car park.

Chief Executive David Craig said the charity was “thrilled” to be included.

The original painting is available to buy for £7,500, with prints and postcards also available.

Rob Hain’s painting of Perth, which he completed in his Selkirk studio after coming to the Fair City for three days and photographing landmarks. How many do you recognise?