Oor Wullie’s BIG Bucket Trail – Discover ‘Wee Wullie Winkie’
This fun-loving, charity art trail has taken over the streets of Scotland, so we’re getting inside the creative minds behind some of the most stunning sculptures! Here’s a chat with The Scots Magazine’s Oor Wullie artist, David Graham
Artist: David Graham
Statue: ‘Wee Wullie Winkie’
Sponsor: The Scots Magazine
Charity: Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity
Location: Bell’s Bridge, Glasgow
What inspired you to get involved with The Bucket trail? Have you been involved in any charitable art events before?
I’ve taken part in charitable sculpture trails for the past 4 years, mostly through Wild In Art. They are a good way for me to visit cities/places around the UK and research their local history and culture.
I was familiar with Oor Wullie as I have Scottish ancestry, have visited Scotland a number of times and have Scottish friends. I liked the shape of the sculpture so I really wanted to secure one, and to my surprise I got commissioned to create Oor Wullie Winkie for Glasgow.
I’m a full-time art teacher, so working on the sculpture trails is fun and also allows me to show my pupils some interesting commissions.
Why did you choose the theme of Wee Willie Winkie?
The idea of a design based on Wee Willie Winkie was one of my first ideas as, although I am not from Scotland, I was familiar with the tale.
In the 21st century, we tend to ignore old stories in favour of new trends.
I thought the design would rekindle and celebrate the ‘old fashioned’ poem and perhaps introduce it to another generation of youngsters who will engage with the sculpture trail.
My design shows Wullie in his blue and white pyjamas complete with a matching night cap and red slippers. He looks as though he is just waking and stretching from a deep sleep.
The bucket that Wullie is sat on depicts the Glasgow skyline at night, a traditional candle night-light and a black cat – all mentioned in the Wee Willie Winkie poem.
How much does it mean to you that your art is helping GCHC?
The trail will not only bring smiles to the faces of those who see the sculptures, it will ultimately support a cause that will make a difference to young lives.
As I said, I’ve taken part in charitable sculpture trails for the past 4 years and I usually take my family out to spot the sculptures, as well.
This enables them to see new places whilst supporting the local economy and the arts. And I feel that any charity work is vital.
For more information on Oor Wullie’s BIG Bucket Trail, visit www.oorwullie.com
And track down ‘Wee Wullie Winkie’ here
