Three Glasgow-based artists commissioned by Chivas Regal adorn tanks with murals
Blended Scotch whisky Chivas, has partnered with three artists local to Glasgow to create striking murals on the 9.4m tall, rounded tanks at its Strathclyde Distillery, one of oldest grain distilleries in Scotland.
The project, delivered in partnership with Glasgow-based production company artpistol Projects, sees Molly Hankinson, Michael Corr and Rogue One transform the tanks with paintings of iconic local figures, with additional typography woven throughout by artistic signwriter Ellie Mills.
The art initiative was inspired by the close ties parent company, Chivas Brothers has with the Strathclyde Region. The Strathclyde Distillery’s single grain whisky is an essential part of Chivas Regal giving the iconic blend a delicate character that leads to the generously smooth taste synonymous with the brand.
The project is the latest activity under Chivas’ ‘I Rise, We Rise’ platform which demonstrates the brand’s continued commitment to celebrate and elevate the next generation of hustlers who are forging their own paths to success. Each mural pays homage to those who embody this ethos and have uplifted their community along the way. From Margaret Macdonald, an artist said to have helped define the ‘Glasgow Style’ movement of the 1890s-1900s, to Tom McGuire, frontman of 8-piece Glaswegian funk and soul band Tom McGuire & the Brassholes. The final mural celebrates the spirit of human adversity and triumph in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, by paying homage to Mark Coyle’s countless achievements whilst navigating the diagnosis of Perthes disease at an early age which left him wheelchair-bound and with his mobility restricted.
Ali Smith, Founder at artpistol Projects, said:
“Glasgow is known as the place where grit and glamour coexist. It’s the kind of city that gets into your bones, so it comes as no surprise that it teems with creative talent.
“It’s brilliant to be able to work with a Scottish-born global giant like Chivas who really understands this notion and understands the unique market here. They’re just as passionate about uplifting the Glaswegian community as we are, and we can’t wait to see how the finished pieces turn out.”
Nick Blacknell, Global Marketing Director at Chivas, added:
“Chivas and Strathclyde share a long and storied history; one that dates all the way back to the 18th century.
“As a location, it’s close to the hearts of everyone at Chivas and we’re honoured to be able to highlight its importance to us through the creation of these murals. We’re passionate about paying forward the kindness shown to us by the community here, so it felt right that we work with artists who either live nearby or have a clear connection to Glasgow and the Strathclyde region.”
The murals are available to view at Strathclyde Distillery, 40 Moffat St, Glasgow G5 0QB. For more information, please visit Chivas.com/en/stories/strathclyde-mural/ or follow us on Instagram @ChivasRegal.
