Meet the Flockers: stitching in time for the Royal Highland Show

Knit what was expected at the Royal Highland ShowKnit what was expected at the Royal Highland Show
Knit what was expected at the Royal Highland Show
We’re rounding up all the individual artworks that form the massive cross-country public art trail Flock to the Show, which points in celebration to this year’s come back for the Golden Shears competition to the Royal Highland Show. Today: Davy Baa-wie by Jenny McHardy sponsored by Macklin Motors

The Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Championships is returning to the Royal Highland Show in June after 20 years.

Held in the MacRobert Theatre, more than 35 countries from across the world will battle it out to see who is the fastest sheep shearer and who has the best woolhandling technique.

The highly-anticipated event will feature 39 decorated sheep sculptures that are currently on tour across Scotland in the Flock to the Show public art trail.

The Scotsman is the media partner for both events and the Royal Highland Show is held from 22 to 25 June.

Visit the website at royalhighlandshow.org

Meet the artist

Jenny McHardy is a knitwear designer working in Fife. Since graduating from the Royal College of Art in 2007, she has taught textile workshops in schools, colleges, and universities as well as running her own label, Nervous Stitch. This is the fourth public art commission she has undertaken. Jenny is passionate about Scottish knitwear and textiles and always incorporates knit into every piece, keeping Scottish textiles relevant, contemporary, and talked about.

Jenny says: “The inspiration for the sheep design came from the bold monochromatic designs of Sanquhar knitting. Most people are aware of Fair Isle knitting, but many are unaware of the existence of Sanquhar, hailing from the small town near the Scottish Borders. “I used a few different designs within Baa-wie, knitting his jumper cuffs and neckband in pure wool. The neckband has the date and name knitted into the design, in keeping with the traditions of Sanquhar knitting.”

Davy Baa-wie

Davy Baa-wie by Jenny McHardy represents how adopting new technology has brought significant benefits to Scottish farming, the wider economy, and the environment.

Technology has improved productivity, efficiency, and profitability, allowing farmers to produce more with less waste, reduced labour, and lower environmental impact. This has helped Scottish farmers remain competitive in the global market, increasing exports, and driving economic growth and job creation. Other benefits of new technologies include improved animal welfare, disease control, and soil health, leading to more sustainable practices. This, in turn, has improved the quality of produce and increased consumer demand, further driving growth.

All of which has helped Scotland to meet its environmental targets, and improve the country’s reputation as an ethical and responsible food producer.

Meet the sponsor

Macklin Motors was established in 2010 and, with dealerships across Scotland, it is a local friendly expert service for new cars, used cars, motability, new vans and used commercial vehicles. The firm said: “Macklin Motors is part of the Vertu Motors Group tour of the length and breadth of the UK this season, with our LIVE on TOUR roadshow. We’re bringing the super-talented Superjam Rock Band to our stand to perform live along with Q&A sessions with local partners. “Like the artist Jennifer McHardy, we love a bit of Bowie! We’re also pleased to support local artists and their creative efforts in the local community.” Macklin Motors will have a stand at the RHS, offering a variety of activities to entertain visitors.

Find your fleece

Locate today’s sheep and access our VIP competition to win free parking, hospitality, and lots more by following this link.

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