Vision

The idea for the Star of Caledonia started back in 2001, when local entrepreneur Alasdair Houston MBE wanted to create something to put the region on the map following the terrible year of foot and mouth which hit our region especially hard.  

The Trust commissioned international artist Cecil Balmond OBE who took inspiration from Scotland’s scientific heritage. Cecil’s vision and creativity has led to a bold, modern sculpture that reflects movement, light and energy.

The Star will sit in a wonderful biodiverse landscape which will be fully accessible to all. With meandering paths, a lochan, viewing platform, a visitor hub and stylish places for people to gather, it will be a true community based cultural destination.

The Trust of the Star of Caledonia has a simple goal - we want to attract visitors, boost the local economy, and give the region of Dumfries & Galloway a landmark that proudly welcomes all to Scotland. 

A man with a beard, dressed in a suit, sitting at a desk with a writing instrument, and a large mechanical device with a circular component on the desk, against a plain background.
A man with short gray hair and a dark blazer pointing at a large, glowing molecular model on the wall, with a red background and blue graphics overlay.
Large white outdoor sculpture resembling an abstract helical structure with black-tipped rods extending outward, situated on a green hill with a park and lake in the background under a partly cloudy sky.