(from left) Calum Miller, Cllr Gordon Pryde, James Gordon, Susheila Jamieson, Garry Herkes and Rachel Brisbane
Dunfermline’s deep-rooted pilgrim past has been marked with a striking new sculpture.
Standing three metres tall, the corten steel column – titled Footprints – is the latest work from acclaimed artistic duo, Jamieson Gordon, and has been installed at the gateway to Dundas Estates’ The Railways development.
Created as a powerful nod to the medieval pilgrim route that winds through the area to Dunfermline Abbey, the artwork captures a unique sense of place, history and symbolism in one simple, powerful form.
Commissioned by Dundas, the sculpture is a focal point of its development and is already attracting interest from passers-by and prospective buyers alike.
The design centres around a tapering, rusted steel dart, embedded with impressions of human and animal footprints.
These serve to evoke the thousands of pilgrimages made across generations – and pay homage to stories that have shaped Dunfermline’s heritage.
James Gordon, one half of Jamieson Gordon, said: “We were inspired by the idea of movement through time. Footprints felt like the right concept to bring that to life – a symbol of passage, memory, and collective identity.
“The bare footprints in the sculpture reference an old tradition tied to St Margaret, who is said to have washed the feet of pilgrims arriving at the Abbey. There’s a quiet reverence in that story, which we hoped to echo in our work.”
The sculpture also incorporates impressions of footwear from different historical periods, showcasing the evolving human journey across time.
Notably, the piece includes dog pawprints – a nod to the loyal companions who would have accompanied early travellers, and to more recent local history when the site was home to a greyhound racing track.
Dundas senior sales executive Rachel Brisbane with Jamesion Gordon artists Susheila Jamieson and James Gordon
James added: “Each footprint tells a little story. Whether it’s the outline of a bare foot, a hobnailed boot or a dog’s paw, it all adds layers to the sculpture’s meaning and to the story of the site itself.
“Having worked on several public commissions over the years, this project felt particularly rewarding. It’s always gratifying – and nerve-racking – to see a piece come to life in situ. You never really know how it’ll fit the space until it’s in.”
Dundas Estates has made a point of blending historical sensitivity with community-focused modern living at The Railways, a 57-home development in West Fife.
Calum Miller, head of sales at Dundas Estates, said: “When we planned this development, we recognised how special the location was. It’s steeped in history and meaning for the people of Dunfermline.
“Having this outstanding piece of public art by Jamieson Gordon not only reflects that significance, but also adds a fresh layer of identity and place-making to the community.”
Councillor Gordon Pryde, who attended the unveiling, said: “This is an excellent and innovative piece of artwork that Dundas has in front of the estate. It represents the history underlying at the site.
“They’re contributing to the people and to the city of Dunfermline. There’s a lot of new housing around, but here it’s a good mix of affordable and social housing as well.”
James, who co-founded Jamieson Gordon with his business partner Susheila Jamieson more than 20 years ago, said the pair worked closely on every stage of the process, from early sketches through to final installation.
Based in the Borders, the pair have collaborated on landmark artworks across Scotland and the North of England, including several commissions for housebuilders.
James added: “This project was a lovely example of local collaboration too. We were able to draw on the skill and experience of Cuthbertsons, a firm just down the road from us, to bring the sculpture to life.”
The Railways is located a short distance from Dunfermline’s city centre and offers three-, four- and five-bedroom homes with high-spec interiors, energy efficient features and generous outdoor spaces.
Calum added: “The development is not only a great place to live – but also one where people can feel connected to the area’s rich story. We’re proud that Footprints helps reinforce that sense of belonging.”
