They light up the coastline and provide reassurance and comfort to those at sea.
And now, they will be a beacon of hope to hundreds of cancer patients after being chosen as the subject for the next public art trail to hit the north and north-east.
The Light the North trail will feature more than 30 lighthouse sculptures designed by artists from around the country – and for the first time, will be lit up.
The sculptures will then be auctioned off for Clan, which provides emotional and practical support to cancer patients across Grampian, Orkney and Shetland.
Similar trails featured dolphins, anchors and Oor Wullie have raised millions for good causes.
Clan’s chief executive, Colette Backwell, said she was already looking forward to seeing the colourful sculptures pop up across region next September.
She said: “We’re delighted to be partnered with Wild in Art to bring this event to life for the individuals and families across the area to get involved with.
“Clan has been supporting people for 36 years, and, as many of our clients have told us, we are a shining light in the dark for anyone affected by cancer. The lighthouse is a symbol that reflects what we do and is synonymous with the areas we support.
“We are proud to bring the trail to communities that Clan operates in and hope that the lighthouse trail and our partnership with Wild in Art will allow us to help more people affected by cancer.”
Since 2008, Wild in Art has animated cities around the world including Sydney, Cape Town and Sao Paulo – as well as closer to home at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, the Wild Dolphins in Aberdeen and, most recently, this summer’s Oor Wullie Big Bucket Trail.
Charlie Langhorne, Wild in Art’s co-founder and managing director, said: “Light the North is an exciting project for us as it will be the first time sculptures have lit up, which celebrates not just the maritime history of the area but the important services offered by Clan.
“The sculpture trail is the ideal way to get out and about with friends and family to see more of the place you live and learn about local history.
“As well as being educational, the sculptures are beautiful, each one having been lovingly created by a local artist. Each individual sculpture tells a different story, and residents and tourists enjoy following the entire trail using the trail map and app.”
Clan has appealed for any businesses interested in sponsoring the trail to get in touch.
Fiona Fernie, the charity’s head of income generation and business development, said: “We want to work with exciting businesses who are passionate about engaging with the north-east, Moray, Orkney and Shetland to help us light up the region with our lighthouses.
“We have a variety of sponsorship packages to meet your business needs, inspire your staff and allow you to leave a lasting legacy across the north-east.”
To be a part of Light the North, e-mail lighthousekeeper@clanhouse.org or call 01224 647000.
