“Nestling in the grounds of Moy Hall, with the sparkling waters of Loch Moy as a backdrop, the annual Highland Field Sports Fair enjoys a stunning location. For me, it is not only the setting, but the essence of the Fair that has proved irresistible. I refer to this composition as a kaleidoscope of memories. The painting features twelve, instantly recognisable, miniature studies, executed using my traditional oil painting techniques.  The viewer is encouraged to enter the scene at any point and is then taken for a stroll around various events and highlights, selected to capture the soul of the Fair.

Visitors to the 2008 Fair were able to see this work of art for themselves in the Clan Chattan/Mackintosh marquee, where Mrs Mackintosh of Mackintosh, Moy Estate, along with the Clan Chattan committee very kindly invited us to put on a display. To say that I am delighted that the Highland Field Sports Fair committee welcomed me to participate in the event, is to put it mildly. For they also accepted the offer of a Commemorative Fund-Raising Limited Edition Print, taken from the original oil painting.

Since then, I have also to be seen on many occasions, painting live at my easel in the ring of the Fair, capturing the art and soul of the event, the resultant on-the-spot watercolour studies being donated by us to the Committee as prizes for a charity fund-raising draw. Being out and about at my easel at an event such as this, enables people to enjoy watching an artist at work.

There are a very large number of recognisable people featured in the painting. Viewers of the various scenes within the painting will see (then) Joint Master and Huntsman Trevor Adams setting off at a trot, parading The Duke of Buccleuchs Foxhounds. A shooter shouldering his gun after a session and a would-be archer getting some useful tips - perhaps before going off to enjoy some Arbroath Smokies.

Proudly marching on is The Royal British Legion Pipe Band in full No. 1 dress, whilst in a quieter corner, a young person is guided through fly-casting on the sparkling waters of Loch Moy and visitors wander through the cornucopia of fishing tackle on offer.

A Gun Dog Handling demonstration by Norleigh Kennels proves irresistible to the crowd gathered around the main ring and especially so to the commentator who settles himself cross-legged on the scaffolding platform. Finally, strolling through the eager folk watching their favourites in the Terrier Racing, a young girl passes unnoticed with her ‘doggie’ companion.”

Paul Taggart

Artist : Author : Presenter : Producer