Rest In Pieces (The Loch Ness Monster) - Original

My intention was to create a beautiful, intriguing scene that progressed from darkness to light as you move upwards, not just visually but conceptually. This piece really is a case of what lies beneath the surface, the murky loch bed is a blend of eerie reeds and shadows, algae covered rocks that showcase all that is bad about mans’ impact here and it is where Nessie rests in pieces. Coins from an old crown to present day currency are scattered on the rock, symbolising how for years and years people have flocked to the water and quite literally thrown their money into the loch, effectively making a wish that they will see her. Vintage binoculars (made in Inverness), most likely fallen overboard feature an etched on image of the monster designed to trick, possibly a guided tour from way back?

The commercial aspect is further represented by the blackened and cracking soft toy, possibly cast into the water in disappointment. You might also spot an old abacus in the shadows, showing that this isn’t some quick hatched scheme to deceive and disappoint. I have laid a solitary thistle to embrace Scotland here, possibly as a gesture towards Nessie. Littering is a huge consequence of the scores of people who flood to the area, this is represented by a rusting drinks can and a bottle of whisky - also included as a light-hearted nod to those who might have had one too many before they claim to have seen their monster, after all a monster does so often surface when alcohol is involved. Look through the murkiness of the water and you’ll see an old wreck, a feature that is prominent within the vast loch whilst also reinforcing the damaging impact man has had on Nessies environment.

Moving upwards we see her spirit rising up and swimming beautifully towards the light which has been created to have a heaven-like quality to it, she is no longer hounded and hindered, she is finally free to rest in pieces. Ultimately I have strived to create something very different to what exists, to make you look and think a little deeper and hopefully the real monster might just surface.