The ‘Scottish Banksy’ projects NHS tribute on to Edinburgh landmarks

An anonymous artist, dubbed the “Scottish Banksy”, has projected a tribute to frontline workers on to Capital landmarks – including Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament.

The Rebel Bear created the image of an NHS worker, wearing personal protective equipment and holding her hands in the shape of a heart, which was projected on to nine landmarks in the capital.

The anonymous owner of the original image said it “epitomises mankind’s capacity for selflessness”.

Alongside Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Salisbury Crags, the National Museum of Scotland and St Giles’ Cathedral were also emblazoned with the image on Christmas Eve.

The image was projected on to the Scottish Parliament on Christmas Eve. (Stewart Attwood/PA)

The image was even projected on to the Forth Rail Bridge.

The owner of the original image said: “For me, this image epitomises mankind’s capacity for selflessness, at a time when there has never been a greater need to demonstrate community understanding and social responsibility, but above all, love, compassion.

“We are in a collective fight against Covid, striving to preserve nothing less than the very existence of human life.

“2020 has been a long, toilsome road. The NHS continues to operate throughout the toughest of times, with staff working tirelessly and under immense pressure.

“During this festive period, when many of them wish they could be at home with their loved ones, we are sharing this simple but powerful image as a public expression of our appreciation to all health and care workers, in the spirit of love and goodwill.

“We want people to know that others are thinking about them now and into what we hope is a better, brighter year.”

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