Spincycle-Skye was a year-long multi-disciplinary project looking at culture through performance, music, visual arts and crafts. Drawing from a common theme of spin, ATLAS commissioned an array of artists to explore different projects inspired by all things that revolve, turn, rotate, mirror and repeat.
Working with artist Deirdre Nelson, ATLAS commissioned her to develop a new work on Skye called ‘Lúb|Loop’. This project sawDeirdre collaborate with a variety of crofters, spinners and those who work the land here in Skye. ‘Lúb|Loop’ took on many facets as the project went on a journey across the island, with Deirdre documenting the project’s development on a dedicated blog. ‘Lúb|Loop’ culminated in an exhibition at the Skye & Lochalsh Archive Centre in Portree, bringing together stories from all the individuals Deirdre worked with alongside the heritage she uncovered in her research.
With socks, wool production and knitted products a key element in Deirdre Nelson’s ‘Lúb|Loop’ project, a side project titled ‘The Great Welly Sock Challenge’ seemed inevitable! To coincide with ‘Lúb|Loop’, Deirdre devised this community knit project to support the Row St Kilda to Skye challenge. With socks contributed from around the world, Deirdre brought in an international element to her local research. Socks were sold in outlets throughout Portree, with all proceeds going to those taking part in the rowing challenge.
You can still knit your own using The Great Welly Sock Challenge knitting pattern.