Uncover Forgotten Stories at The Pillbox Project Exhibition
Jacqueline Willis’ exhibition at Arkade Gallery brings to life the hidden histories of pillboxes.
Arkade Gallery in Aberdeen is preparing to host a unique exhibition that sheds light on an often-overlooked part of Scotland’s history. Opening on Saturday, 10th August and running until 20th August, Jacqueline Willis’ latest project, The Pillbox Project, invites you to discover the hidden stories behind the coastal pillboxes that have silently stood guard over the years.
Jacqueline Willis, an artist with a keen eye for finding the human spirit in everyday structures, believes that even the most mundane objects can reflect the essence of human life. Her work honours these forgotten historical structures along Scotland's coastline. These (often) hexagonal concrete structures have holes for home guards to fire weapons. They provided a defence line against sea attacks, built to withstand small-arms fire and grenades, and raised to improve the field of fire.
My work is mostly powdered charcoal and powdered pigments, some of which are then encased in resin. Blackdog Keek for example is a handmade paper (which almost dissolves in the resin) leaving the pigments to float back, stronger materials (such as the pencil used to detail the pillbox) come forward making the pillbox structure intangible, yet recognisable.
Jacqueline Willis
Left: Blackdog Keek | Right: A pillbox at Donmouth Nature Reserve
The Pillbox Project exhibition, funded by Creative Scotland and hosted by Allinideas, is the result of a year-long project. You can explore the stories and cultural impact of these iconic coastal sentinels. Stretching from Donmouth Nature Reserve to Black Dog Rifle Range, the exhibition highlights personal accounts from people whose lives were intertwined with these structures. From foster parents to scientists, golfers to artists, their stories form the foundation of Willis’ colourful artwork.
A poignant glimpse into the past
The Pillbox Project is a must-see for those interested in local history and art. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the North East’s coastal defences and to appreciate the artistry that captures their enduring legacy.
The purpose of this project was record and express others memories of the pillboxes. The result of this was whilst their minds eye of the place was very much the same as mine, their hearts eye I could not quite grasp and as a result my drawings should be recognisable but still ambiguous.
Jacqueline Willis
At the exhibition, you'll discover photographs, artefacts, and personal stories highlighting the resilience and community spirit around these concrete guardians. The showcased lives and memories of a generation protected by these pillboxes offer a poignant glimpse into the past.
We are excited about this exhibition and encourage everyone to visit. It’s a chance to see history and art join in a powerful tribute to Scotland’s wartime resilience. Don’t miss out on this unique show at Arkade Gallery (at the Anatomy Rooms) from the 10th to the 20th of August.
