Our Story
Finding a home for Arcadia
In late 2018, sculptor and environmental artist Rob Mulholland, and his partner Susan fulfilled a long-held dream by finding suitable premises from where they could establish a centre of excellence for Sculpture and Environmental Art in Scotland. After a search lasting over 3 years, they succeeded in purchasing Drumbeg Farm, a former livery stable set within 21 acres of woodland and pasture in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
Throughout 2019 they transformed a large barn from stables to studio space and began the long process of restoring neglected woodlands to improve their biodiversity and enhance this haven for flora and fauna. By following the principles of wildlife friendly gardening, they hope to create a sustainable haven for wildlife, and to encourage new species to take up residence.
Plans were delayed during 2020 and - as with everywhere else - progress was impacted by the Global pandemic, but during this time work continued on establishing a Sculpture Trail within the grounds, and the construction of two unique glamping cabins, Halcyon and Elysium was completed, allowing visitors the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the Arcadia experience. www.arcadiaglamping.co.uk
The Next Chapter
Our long term aim is to create a sustainable and economically viable centre to promote environmental art in Scotland that will grow and develop over the coming years, creating a legacy for the future. To enable this aim further we applied for, and were successful in gaining, charitable status in April 2021.
Suzanne Teed joined the board of Trustees in 2021 and has helped to develop the centre further. We have ambitious plans to introduce a programme of art workshops to be available to local schools and the general public. We will seek funding to support and subsidise these workshops, making them affordable to all.
In 2022 we will commence a series of Artist’s Residencies which will help a wide range of Scottish and UK based Artists to develop their practice, and be inspired by their time spent at Arcadia.
The benefits of engagement in a creative pursuit, and the opportunity to spend time in nature, are at the heart of everything we do at Arcadia. We believe in the benefit that a thriving, wildlife rich environment has on people’s physical and mental wellbeing, and the necessity in our busy lives to take time to connect with art and nature.