Watch Rachel Maclean put the world right at Jupiter Artland - Karen Koren

I was very pleased to be at the opening of Jupiter Artland 2021 last Friday everning. It was great to get out and about into the countryside and mingle with invited guests, socially distanced of course.

Rachel Maclean's Upside Down Mimi at Jupiter Artland

Jupiter Artland is an award-winning contemporary sculpture garden just outside Edinburgh at Wilkieston, close to Damahoy Golf Club, Kirknewton. Founded in 2009 by art collectors Robert and Nicky Wilson, it has grown into one of Scotland’s most significant arts organisations.

Jupiter Artland has an international reputation for innovation and creativity – in 2016 this was recognised by a nomination for ArtFund’s Museum of the Year.

Set over 100 acres of meadow, woodland and indoor gallery spaces, Jupiter Artland is home to over 30 permanent and unique site-specific sculptures from artists Phyllida Barlow, Christian Boltanski, Charles Jencks, Anish Kapoor and Antony Gormley, as well as a seasonal programme of curated exhibitions and events from artists, both emerging and established.

Edinburgh born artist Rachel Maclean. Picture David Bebber

I’ve only visited a few times – but each time I visit I have been bowled over by the exhibits and the walk around the area with so many exciting attractions to see.

Jupiter Artland, like so many other businesses within the arts community, have had their difficulties over the past year since the pandemic struck and were forced to close.

They have now re-opened with an amazing new ground-breaking exhibition by talented Scottish artist Rachel Maclean entitled Upside Mimi. This is the first time Maclean has worked entirely with cartoon animation. A toy shop is set in the woodland provoking stories of the role that forests play in fairytales, being magical and dangerous

It is certainly intriguing as Mimi the ragdoll is seen in various guises in the trees before you arrive at the Dolls House which has thought provoking cartoon footage.

It was heart-warming to see so many out and about at the event and for that matter to be at an event again, with people and being allowed to mingle – even though it was socially distanced.

It is well worth a visit and the Upside Mimi will be a permanent part of Jupiter Artland. Go and see it when you can.