Argyll Coast & Islands Hope Spot

Who are we?

The Argyll Coast and Islands Hope Spot is a community-led celebration of the world-class natural riches of this part of Scotland. It is the first Mission Blue Hope Spot in mainland UK. The Argyll Hope Spot aims to celebrate, recognise and support life above and below the waves.

Hope Spots are special places, vital for the ocean’s health, linked by the international organisation Mission Blue. This growing global network also includes the Galapagos Islands and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Collectively, Hope Spots are creating a global wave of community support for ocean conservation.

In 2021 we hosted our first snorkelling residencies for artists, and again every year since. Through our artists residencies, we hope to bring a range of audiences closer to the incredible world hidden beneath the surface.

Our work and residency are supported by;

The William Grant Foundation. The William Grant Foundation is a non-profit association established to support charitable causes in Scotland. Its work is funded by William Grant and Sons Ltd.

Kilchoan Melfort Trust. Kilchoan Melfort Trust sits within around 1500 acres on the Degnish peninsula, on the shores of Loch Melfort. The Trust work to restore and manage the land and sea, as well as supporting the arts and spiritual creativity. As well as supporting our residency financially, the Trust have generously provided accommodation and the use of their facilities for our artists in past years, and again this year.

“It was such a privilege to be in these locations, seeing new and astonishing things and surrounded by people who were knowledgable and curious in equal measures. I'm grateful to now be part of a network of sea loving artists. truly privileged to be in any way connected with a Hope Spot, let alone one that's here in Scotland. The whole residency illustrated just how blurred the line between science and art is, and the endless benefits of letting the two come together. Still can't believe this residency exists and don't want to work on land ever again, I've had my snorkel with me on every swim since coming home!”

- 2023 snorkelling artist