Kyle of Sutherland Book Fair... and Art Fair

Marking a brilliant fourth edition of the KoS Book Fair and presenting the upcoming Art & Photography Fair on 10th October 2026.

By R.K.J. Adams

“From tiny acorns mighty oaks grow.” From a conversation at the beginning of 2023 between the Chair of the hall committee Anna Patfield with local author R.K.J. Adams, the idea of a book fair in Ardgay was envisaged. We had no idea if a book fair would be of interest to locals, or if people from further afield would travel to Sutherland. In addition, it was suggested that the book fair be slotted into a well-established Gala Weekend, with Friday being the only possible opportunity. Would a Friday work? Would members of the public attend, and authors be available and interested in participating? 


Readers and writers did attend, ranging from up on the north coast to south of Inverness. That first book fair in August 2023 was successful, not least in the sense that it gave local creatives the opportunity to network. A second book fair began to be planned.


In addition, across the water in Bonar Bridge, local artist Carolyn Wyvill was keen to organise an Art Fair in May 2024. Two events of such differing yet creative natures worked well, showing a real interest from villagers, and folk living further afield. Local photographers were also encouraged to take part. Children from all local primary schools and playgroup sent in artwork to celebrate the area’s beauty. We had no funds to offer prizes but people came to see the children’s exhibition. Only due to the capacity of volunteers, was it decided that the Art & Photography Fair would be biennial. 


Following another book fair in 2024, the third event in August 2025 seemed to mark a turning point, attracting authors from across Scotland as well as a faithful core of writers who had attended each year. The reputation of the book fair grew as it became established, and visitors acknowledged the wonderful experiences of listening to authors reading parts of their novels or poetry. Some aspects of organising the book fair worked brilliantly, but, although children’s authors offered readings each year, attendance was poor. However, the toddler story session at the library in Bonar Bridge was popular. 


As the summer of 2026 approached, with both the fourth Kyle of Sutherland Book Fair and the second Art & Photography Fair planned, Ardgay Hall committee and volunteers began their work again. It had always been our aim to bring creative experiences to people who live around the shores of the Kyle of Sutherland. We also wanted to engage with the younger residents for both the book fair and art fair. To achieve this goal, we needed a small amount of funding. The committee applied for a grant towards the book fair and the art fair to The Edinburgh Sutherland Association with the aim to encourage the creative talents of youngsters living around the Kyle of Sutherland. “Let’s nurture the acorns.”


Working in partnership with Bonar Bridge Library, Gaelic Children’s writer Ceitidh Hutton attended a Bookbug session with her latest story and songs. The book Fair on 14th August, proved very popular once again with authors and readers alike. A record number of local writers took part in readings from a range of genres and talks on the writing process and different ways to get published. Crossreach Oversteps Care Home in Dornoch provided tasty treats to raise funds to purchase a minibus so that they can take residents out more often.



Upcoming Art Fair


As soon as the book fair was over, it was time to finalise the plans for the Kyle of Sutherland Art & Photography Fair on Saturday 10th October from 11 am to 3 pm. All the pupils from Bonar Bridge, Gledfield and Rosehall primary schools, together with little ones from the Ladybird Club Ardgay, will take part in an art exhibition and competition around the theme of “Highland Myths and Magic” with each young participant getting a small prize. Three local artists will judge the children’s artwork, with prizes given to winners from each school, and for the best in show. Refreshments will be available courtesy of Ardgay Public Hall volunteers. Artists and photographers from across the region will have their work on show and for sale, each with a unique style and take on the beautiful area in which we live.