Virtual MacGruer exhibition turns into tribute to 'gem of a man'
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A move to stage a virtual exhibition of a well-known Golspie artist has taken off.
Golspie Village Facebook page invited people to post any pictures they had by the late Steve MacGruer.
It was intended as a diversion to lift the coronavirus gloom but it has turned into both a testament to the artist's work and a touching posthumous tribute to the man himself.
Former pupils have responded in their droves with fond memories of Mr MacGruer, who served for many years as an art teacher at Golspie High School.
Posts talk of a “gem of a man” and recall his brilliance as a teacher. Social media users also speak about the pleasure of owning one of his paintings.
His contribution to Golspie Gala week programmes has also been remembered.
Gillian Grant posted: “Thought he was the coolest man alive though he never actually taught me. Looking at his pictures now I realise what a talent he had.”
Mairi Grant wrote: "Steve was an absolute gem of a man."
Rogart native David Mackay, now living in Thailand, got in touch with the Northern Times after reading about the exhibition on our website.
He received a Steve MacGruer picture as a wedding present from his brother and sister-in-law.
To see the virtual exhibition, visit the Golspie Village Facebook page.