A LEADING Japanese conceptual artist’s works are to be shown at an historic venue in the North East.

The 18th century architecture and design of Duff House, in Banff, has influenced a Japanese visual artist, Atsuo Hukuda, to create a small collection of contemporary works that are now set to go on display.

Hukuda’s small-scale installations draw on the use of materials and finishes used throughout the house and Suki-Mono: Ways Since Rin-Pa will go on public view at the Georgian mansion on September 4 for seven weeks. The installation also helps mark Scotland’s Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design.

The newly created works follow the principles of Rin-Pa, one of the major historical schools of Japanese painting, which originated in Kyoto in the 17th century. The technique, which involves gold or silver leaf work, ornamental patterns and an asymmetric composition, was significantly developed in 18th century Japan, around the same time when Duff House was under construction.

Originally training as a sculptor and exhibiting in Scotland for a number of years, Hukuda’s Suki-Mono: Ways Since Rin-Pa makes use of silver leaf work.

The exhibition runs until October 23, and is included in the cost of admission to the house.

duffhouse.org.uk

GLASGOW Americana is celebrating its 10th anniversary in October with ten shows.

American stars such as The Stray Birds (pictured), Kim Richey, Sam Outlaw and Chip Taylor are heading to the city for the festival that gets under way on October 5 and runs through to October 9. The line up also features Blue Rose Code, Roddy Hart, Jill Jackson, The Wynntown Marshals, Findlay Napier and Norrie McCulloch.

Seven different venues are being used for a festival that’s been part of Scotland’s live music scene since its launch in 2007. Over the past decade more than 120 acts have performed at Glasgow Americana, attracting more than 6,000 fans.

Some acts are making return visits to the festival, including Nashville-based Kim Richey and Otis Gibbs. Making his debut is Sam Outlaw from South California who counts Ry Cooder a major guiding hand.

glasgowamericana.com

TIDELINES Book Festival in Ayrshire this year includes former Scottish international rugby star John Beattie in its September event.

Capped 25 times for Scotland, Beattie has twice toured with the British Lions in the 1980s, and was in the last Scottish side to beat England at Twickenham.

Forced by injury to retire in 1987, Beattie started writing and broadcasting and is also an accomplished after dinner speaker. Tidelines chairman Keith Charters said: “We’re hoping he’ll bring a new audience to our festival this year.”

John Beattie will be appearing at Tidelines Book Festival in Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre on September 25 at 3.00pm.

tidelinesbookfest.com