The ongoing series Sanctuary by Ruairidh McGlynn explores the relationship between mankind and nature through Scotland’s mountain bothy culture, bothies being free and basic shelters maintained by a network of devout volunteers. Evolved from old farmhouses or shooting lodges, these shelters are left unlocked to serve as refuges for seasoned hillwalkers who happen to come across them. “If you are willing to go through the effort of locating a bothy, walk great distances, carry everything you need and possibly spend your night with strangers, you are likely to have one of the most memorable nights in a beautiful location,” the photographer enthuses.
McGlynn first came upon a bothy while walking across the Cairngorm National Park one winter, spurning his fascination for these unassuming bastions which have been “forgotten by many and celebrated by few”. The project has grown over the years, with McGlynn carefully documenting the shelters from a distance, presenting them as discreetly and anonymously as possible to draw our attention not to their location, but to their solid and reassuring presence amidst the remote and dramatic scenery.
McGlynn is heavily inspired by the beauty of sparsely populated landscapes and harsh environments, linking them to ideas of time, place, identity and memory. His work has been featured in publications and exhibitions worldwide. More on his website and Instagram.
Images © Ruairidh McGlynn / with permission