Glasgow artist creates 50kg Scottie Dog sculpture inspired by Ben Lomond

A massive sculpture of a Scottie dog named Lochie successfully reached the peak of Ben Lomond in a display of solidarity for cancer care. Glasgow-based artist Douglas Roulston led the ascent on June 6, accompanied by a group of Maggie’s Centres supporters and Hayley Smith, the project manager for Scotties in the City.

Lochie, a 50kg sculpture created for the Scotties in the City art trail in Glasgow, symbolizes the fundraising efforts for Maggie’s Centres, which offer free emotional, psychological, and practical assistance to individuals with cancer and their loved ones. The challenging climb up Ben Lomond, enduring rain showers and wet conditions, took the team roughly seven hours and 52 minutes to complete.

Reflecting on the journey, Douglas expressed his gratitude towards the team for their support, noting that they exceeded his fundraising goals by raising £735 for Maggie’s. He shared his experience of climbing Ben Nevis with a similar giant sculpture in the past, stating that despite the weather challenges, it felt like a remarkable achievement to conquer Ben Lomond with Lochie.

Hayley Smith commended Douglas and the team for their dedication to the cause, highlighting their perseverance in overcoming the adverse weather conditions. She emphasized the significance of this initiative in raising awareness and funds for Maggie’s Centres across Scotland.

Lochie, inspired by Loch Lomond, serves as the inaugural sculpture to be unveiled from the upcoming Scotties in the City art trail, which is set to kick off on June 18. The art trail will feature 40 large Scottie dog sculptures designed by various artists across Glasgow and its surrounding areas throughout the summer. Subsequent to the trail, the sculptures will be auctioned off in September, with proceeds going to support Maggie’s Centres.

Hayley expressed hope that Douglas and his team’s accomplishment will encourage more individuals to participate in the Scotties in the City art trail, promising a unique and exciting experience for residents and visitors alike. Although the designs of the other giant Scottie dogs remain under wraps, she assured that they are all remarkable creations, providing a delightful treat for the people of Glasgow.