Artworks depict haunting chapter in hotel’s history

Further events are being planned to highlight Carrick’s historical background following the success of a ‘living art’ session at Dobbins Inn.
Michael Sparkes,  Joanne Campbell,  Ald Charles Johnston,  Kirsty Fallis and Steve Diamond.  INCT 34-727-CONMichael Sparkes,  Joanne Campbell,  Ald Charles Johnston,  Kirsty Fallis and Steve Diamond.  INCT 34-727-CON
Michael Sparkes, Joanne Campbell, Ald Charles Johnston, Kirsty Fallis and Steve Diamond. INCT 34-727-CON

Local artists Joanne Campbell, Michael Sparkes and Steve Diamond held the event at the end of July in the historic hotel, inviting visitors to observe as one of Carrick’s most famous spectres was brought back to life on canvas.

The subject of the artworks, which are now up for sale at Dobbins, is the hotel’s reputed resident ghost ‘Maud’.

“Tradition says ‘Maud’ is Elizabeth Dobbin, who was the wife of the mayor in the 17th century. She fell in love with a soldier from Carrick Castle, and would sneak out to see him. Her husband discovered the affair and killed them,” said Joanne, who along with Michael and Steve formed TRIART (Three Really Interesting Artists Rally Together).

The pieces were unveiled by Mayor of Carrick, Alderman Charles Johnston, and Kirsty Fallis from Dobbins. Michael’s picture shows Maud with a dove on her hand, while Joanne’s acrylic painting shows Maud about to sneak out. Steve’s piece depicts the doomed lovers meeting as ghosts in the present day.

The trio are planning more ‘live’ art events in the borough to highlight local history.

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