WATCH: Rooftop artist returns to Inverness with poppy community project after Banksy-inspired success
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A roofer who made the headlines for his artwork on Highland rooftops – including a Banksy-inspired design – is working on his 'biggest project' to be completed in time for Remembrance Sunday.
Gary McIntyre (41), from Dingwall, rose to fame earlier this year for his tile artwork embedded in rooftops, among which a reproduction of Girl With Balloon on a Telford Road building.
The roofer is now back in Inverness for what is his biggest design to date – a poppy on the top of the Hub on Wimberley Way set to be unveiled on November 11.
Mr McIntyre is volunteering his time alongside his business partner at Artisan Roofing, Conor Farmer.
Mr McIntyre said: "We came up with the idea of putting a poppy onto the roof and Conor – who was in the Black Watch for 13 years – approached Major Paddy Marshall to see if he was interested.
"The poppy is such a poignant symbol, it's something that both of us have been really keen to work on this and having it at the community centre here is an ideal location.
"This by far is the biggest project we've undertook. We've started this on October 3 and will be ready on November 10 in preparation of Remembrance Day.
The project was supported by local businesses that joined forces providing materials and manpower.
"Without the support of all businesses we wouldn't have been able to do this," said Mr McIntyre.
"So far, we've had over £26,000 pounds worth of materials donated by all these local businesses, which are signposted on the scaffolding, and we are giving our time up and and the design for nothing. That's a 100 per cent charitable event."
"The community has shown so much positive interest. The kids come out to see it and the community centre is used by many local families, everyone has been complimenting us and they are really excited to see it finished!"
Despite battling the hurdles of Storm Babet and adverse weather over October, the roofing artisans are continuing their work and expect to be finished a couple of days ahead of the ceremony.
"The weather hasn't been kind to us but we are still on track.
"There were days in which Conor, who lives nearby, was woken up at 3am by the wind howling and panicked about possible damages. Thankfully we did not have too much trouble with the storm, and now the most difficult part is done."
Mr Farmer added: "Now we'll focus completely on this project, and then look at what we have done and see where we can take it from there."
New designs are set to appear across the Highlands and the country in the near future.
