Scotties by the Sea: New art trail launches in St Andrews and the coastal communities of North East Fife

'Coastal Wander', designed by Anna Bilyk, can be found in St Monans. (Pic: BID St Andrews)

Scotties by the Sea is transforming the town and the Kingdom’s north east coastal communities into an outdoor art gallery with 30 giant Scottie dogs on display, each uniquely designed by talented artists.

The art trail, which is a partnership between St Andrews Bid and Wild in Art, runs from September 1, 2023 to November 12, 2023.

The trail is in support of Maggie’s Cancer Centres, a charity dedicated to providing invaluable support to those affected by cancer and their families.

The Scotties by the Sea art trail has launched in St Andrews and North East Fife.

Each sculpture is sponsored by local businesses, community groups and education organisations. They are decorated by local artists and communities and are all designed to celebrate the area’s history, culture and coastal heritage.

Jane Kennedy, manager of BID St Andrews, said: “We have spent the last few days installing the Scotties around the coast and in St Andrews and members of the public are responding so well to the dogs, it’s just fantastic to see. We even have visitors already booked in from America, Australia and South Africa coming over just for the trail, some of them even bringing their beloved dogs!”

Visitors and locals can use a bespoke map and mobile app to help them follow the trail, unlocking rewards and discounts provided by sponsors.

Jane continued: “We wanted to make Scotties By the Sea an inclusive and immersive experience for all. The mobile app, which is sponsored by Welcome to Fife, serves as a valuable companion, guiding visitors through the trail, and offering a wealth of information about the artists, their inspirations, and the fascinating stories behind each sculpture. We encourage everyone to download the app, which is available on both Android & iOS and embark on this exciting artistic adventure with us.”

The Copper Dog is at Lindores Distillery.

Eighteen of the Scotties can be found within St Andrews itself, while the other 12 are located around the Fife coast from Leven to Newburgh.

The trail will also feature 15 Wee Dugs as part of the Wee Dug Window Trail which sees Mini Scotties take up residence in Shop windows and businesses throughout the town and along the coastline taking in iconic landmarks, public spaces, and popular visitor attractions.

In November a final farewell weekend will see all the Scotties come together before being auctioned at a special event to raise funds for Maggie’s.

Louise Fraser, chair of BID St Andrews, added: “So many people helped drive Scotties By the Sea forward we have an amazing Scottie Dog Family and without them we would not have been able to get this event off the ground.

'The Big Yin', designed by Megan Reilly, is in Abbey Walk, St Andrews. (pic: BID St Andrews)

“They include our Official Partners, The Old Course Hotel & Spa, St Andrews Links and Welcome to Fife and our Giant Scottie Dog Sponsors; The University of St Andrews, Blachere Illuminations, The Northwood Charitable Trust, Stagecoach, Eden Mill, The Scottish Deer Centre & WildLife Park, CJ Lang (Spar Scotland), The Adamson Bar & Restaurant, DLR Media, The Tayport Community Trust, The Courier, Anstruther Pleasure Cruises, St Andrews Environmental Network & The St Andrews Gift Card. Scotties By the Sea is a testament to the vibrant business and artistic community we have in the North East of Scotland."

A similar art trail featuring golf bags – The Big Bag Trail – designed by local school pupils took place in St Andrews in 2022 for the 150th Open, organised by Callaway and St Andrews Links.

To find out more about the trail and to download a map visit www.scottiesbythesea.com