Sharleen Spiteri. © Craig Mackay
Exhibition: Salt of The Earth, National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, October 16 2009 - January 10 2010
Celebrating emigration, internationalism and Scottish impact abroad, Salt of the Earth features more than 20 contemporary photographs of key personalities who have made a unique contribution to the image of Scotland at home and internationally.
The portraits are the work of acclaimed photographer Craig Mackay, a native highlander from Brora who is currently working in Louisiana in the USA.
Alan Cumming. © Craig Mackay
"Scotland and its people have had a profound impact on the world today," says photographer Craig Mackay.
"Although these are modern photographs, the title Salt of the Earth reflects the often humble and resilient nature of Scottish emigrants who have enriched the world around them over the centuries."
Photographs of famous Scots such a s Sharleen Spiteri, Alan Cumming and football manager Alex Ferguson are shown alongside Neve Campbell and Rosanne Cash (daughter of Johnny), whose Scottish links may come as surprise.
Jack White. © Craig Mackay
"We are delighted to be able to show these contemporary photographs by an acclaimed Scottish photographer," said Maureen Barrie, Exhibitions Officer at the National Museum of Scotland.
"They give a unique insight into the sitters and explore how we define Scottishness, which is particularly appropriate in the Year of Homecoming 2009."
