SKYE’S oldest distillery Talisker has named local artist Katie Tunn as its first-ever artist in residence, creating an exclusive label design.
Katie has also collaborated with the Talisker Brand Home team to create a unique whisky and painting experience, ‘Piece of the Sea’, which will run on 14 February 2024.
She has designed the label for ‘Talisker Skye’ whiskey which is available now exclusively from the Talisker Distillery.
Katie, who has lived on the island for more than a decade, is a celebrated artist, writer, adventurer and marine conservationist.
Her work is inspired by the magic of the Isle of Skye, from its land and seascapes to its climate, wildlife and residents.
The new label is based around some of her best-loved works, namely the ‘Blue Planets’ series, which mirrors the vivid colours of the sea.
As part of the residency Katie will relocate her studio to Talisker for one week from 12 February, where the surrounding landscape, buildings and guests will act as her muse.
Guests who book themselves into the painting and whisky experience will be guided by Katie as they create their very own ‘Piece of The Sea’ to take home with them.
They’ll hear from Katie about how the breathtaking coastlines of the Isle of Skye have influenced her work as she walks them step-by-step through the creative process.
A bespoke cocktail and two carefully selected drams complement the experience, drawing on Katie’s work and the island.
Leigh Aitken, Talisker Brand Home Manager said: “We pride ourselves on providing our guests with unforgettable experiences when they visit us at Talisker.
“We’re privileged to be able to work with Katie to create both a truly special label design for Talisker Skye, and an unmissable painting and tasting session where our guests can see first-hand how she goes about crafting her stunning art.
“Katie has been a friend of the distillery for quite some time now, so it’s great to continue our relationship in this way, while giving our guests the chance to secure two further mementos of their time with us.”
Katie Tunn added: “There is nowhere else quite like Skye, and I feel lucky to have called it my home for nearly ten years.
“It’s a magical and unique island, inspiring creativity in both artists like myself, and the makers of Talisker, which is why I’m delighted to be able to bring a part of my studio to the distillery as part of this residency.
“I had a lot of fun creating the label and crafting the experience and I can’t wait to see the reaction of guests when we work together to create their own piece of the sea.”
The Talisker Distillery is the oldest on Skye, and its rugged coastal character, epitomises the spirit of the island.
The dramatic landscapes and wild seas shape the whisky and its craft.
