Crafting Art through Science: My Journey with Ardbeg House and Russel Sage Studio

Creating art that speaks to place and process has always been a passion. As an Islay-based maker inspired by science, I recently had the privilege of collaborating with Russel Sage Studio on a design commission for the newly opened Ardbeg House, here on Islay. This project allowed me to blend my love for natural materials, scientific concepts, and contemporary design into artworks that resonate deeply with the island’s unique character and whisky heritage.

Image: Black Sands & Islay Sands Sculprures, Michelle Currie

Inspiration from Islay’s Natural Elements

Islay’s landscape is a rich source of inspiration. The island’s distinctive sand, iron-rich soil, and the whisky-making tradition create a unique palette of textures and stories. For this commission, I chose to incorporate Islay sand and iron directly into my sculptures. Allowing the work to carry the physical essence of the landscape.

Working with iron allowed me to explore its raw strength and weathered beauty. The sand, fine and granular, contrasts with the metal’s solidity, evoking the island’s shores and the passage of time. This combination reflects the scientific interplay between elements, a theme I often explore in my jewellery and art.

Creating Sculptures that Tell a Story

The sculptures I created for Ardbeg House are more than decorative pieces. They are narratives in form and material. Each piece captures a moment in Islay’s natural cycle — from the shifting sands to the oxidising iron — mirroring the whisky aging process that defines the island’s identity.

These sculptures stand as silent storytellers within the hotel’s spaces, connecting guests to Islay’s elemental forces.

Collaborating with Russel Sage Studio and Ardbeg House

Working with Russel Sage Studio was a rewarding experience. Their commitment to Scottish contemporary design and respect for local culture aligned perfectly with the vision of the many local makers involved in creating works for the project. Together, we developed concepts that balanced innovation with tradition, ensuring the artworks complemented Ardbeg House’s architecture and hospitality goals.

The studio’s expertise in spatial design helped integrate the pieces seamlessly into the hotel and restaurant interiors. This collaboration highlighted the importance of dialogue between artist, designer, and client to create meaningful environments.

Reflections on the Project and Future Directions

This commission for Ardbeg House allowed me to push the boundaries of my practice into larger works. It reinforced my belief that art rooted in place and science can create powerful connections between people and environment.

You can find my artworks in the bar, restaurant and private dining area of the newly opened Ardbeg House.

I look forward to exploring further projects that combine scientific inquiry with artistic expression, continuing to craft pieces that tell stories through material and form.