| The Inverness Castle Experience is proud to announce creative collaborations with two of the Highlands’ most inspiring designers – Clare Campbell of Prickly Thistle and Sandra Murray, Artist-couturier – as part of its commitment to celebrating local talent and bringing Highland stories to life through contemporary design. |
| Both creatives bring powerful perspectives rooted in place, culture and craftsmanship, adding richness and authenticity to the Experience. The Inverness Castle project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth. Sandra Murray’s bespoke designs are renowned for blending rich Scottish materials, such as Harris Tweed, with unexpected elements like French lace and Italian silks. Her creative practice is deeply inspired by memory, identity and a strong sense of place. Clare Campbell, founder of Prickly Thistle, has built a reputation for challenging traditional ideas of tartan and manufacturing. Rooted in sustainability and heritage, her work draws on the landscape, stories, and values of the Highlands, all produced from her Highland mill using natural fibres and traditional looms. Both Sandra and Clare will create original pieces that reflect the ‘Spirit of the Highlands’, adding texture and depth to the wider visitor experience. Their involvement is part of a wider vision to bring together local makers, artists and storytellers in the creation of a truly Highland destination. Style with a Sense of Place Renowned for her one-of-a-kind couture, Sandra Murray brings her deep cultural ties and creative flair to the Experience by creating a commissioned design centred on a striking frock coat. A New Tartan for a New Chapter Clare is creating a bespoke tartan—a design woven with meaning—that will feature in a range of retail items and also form a key part of the staff uniform—a living, wearable story of the Highlands. Cllr Ken Gowans, Vice Convener of Highland Council – Senior Strategic Chair said, “We’re thrilled to be working with Clare and Sandra – two outstanding creatives whose work captures the energy and soul of the Highlands. Their contributions will help make the Inverness Castle Experience something truly special and unique to this part of the world.” Michael Golding, Chair of High Life Highland’s Board of Directors, said, “From the outset, we’ve been committed to weaving the Spirit of the Highlands into every aspect of the Experience. Collaborating with Clare and Sandra brings that vision vividly to life. Their work doesn’t just reflect Highland culture — it challenges, celebrates and reimagines it in powerful new ways. We’re proud to be working with such exceptional local talent.” Speaking about her commission, Artist Couturier Sandra Murray said, “Designing for the Inverness Castle Experience is an honour – a chance to express the beauty, resilience and quiet strength of Highland culture through tartan. Every thread carries a memory, every fold a story. This project is about more than style – it’s about soul, and I’m proud to be part of it.” On Prickly Thistle’s collaboration with the Experience, Clare Campbell, Founder, said, “Working on this project is an absolute highlight of our story – one that echoes the past, when being hyper-local meant everything to a community. It’s about bringing ethical making back to the people and placing it where it belongs.” The Inverness Castle Experience project, opening later this year, will benefit from investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and a range of other partners. |
