Why Is Jupiter Artland Unique As A Wedding Venue?
As a wedding photographer working mostly in the Edinburgh and the Lothians, I found that Jupiter Artland is an absolute treasure of a wedding venue. It is described as a contemporary sculpture park and art gallery on the outskirts of Edinburgh, however I see it as an eclectic mix of stunning settings to create unforgettable wedding images.
We had the privilege of covering the wedding of Kelly and Adam at Jupiter Artland and it was one of the most diverse locations we have shot at, combining dense woodlands with deep tree cover, and open parkland with ponds and dramatic architectural features.
Kelly and Adam had an emotional connection to the venue as it was the location of one of their early dates together and became a personal favourite. What blew me away from the start was the connection with nature.
A personal memory was of following Adam in his full highland wear through the woods to the location of the service, with him carrying hundreds of origami cranes tied together into a beautiful flowing mobile, ready to be suspended from branches around the ceremony area. It was other worldly and his effort paid off.
“My favourite moment was arriving at the ceremony location and seeing Adam and the space beautifully laid out – he’d hung up origami cranes made by friends and family” – Kelly
Perfectly complementing the natural setting was a traditional Scottish Handfasting ceremony carried out by Scot AnSgeulaiche. It brought an intimate, atmospheric and unique spirit to the ceremony which complemented the natural surroundings perfectly.
What Are The Must Visit Locations At Jupiter Artland?
Deep in the dense woodlands sits The Temple of Apollo. It is a neoclassical style sculpture by Scottish artist Ian Hamilton Finlay and despite it only having been in situ since 2005, looks like it has been there for 200 years.
It formed the backdrop of Kelly and Adam’s wedding ceremony providing a contrast to the natural setting and an interesting structure in which to take some shots of the happy couple.
“Having a private space just for us was really important. I didn’t want to have to worry about anyone else, I just wanted it to be the two of us in a peaceful spot in nature” – Adam
In complete contrast is the sweeping curves of artist Charles Juncks Cells of Life, which consists of eight sweeping landforms marked out by organic concentric curves, connected by a causeway. This iconic landmark is at the entrance to Jupiter Artland. It provides endless permutations for wedding photography combining bright green backdrops and opportunities for reflections in the water at its base.
Tucked away in the woodland is the underground chamber called The Light Pours Out Of Me, by artist Anya Gallaccio. Better known as the Amethyst Cave, it is a unique structure combining symmetry with the ragged natural form of the amethyst lining the chamber.
It is a very special spot, best enjoyed by two people – perfect for bride and groom. It feels intimate and private and provides a location for glimpses from outside in.
What Are The Things To Consider About Jupiter Artland As Your Wedding Venue?
One of the things you have to consider when deciding on Jupiter Artland as your wedding venue is what locations are most important for you. Walking between locations can take quite some time and it eats into some of the time available to you for photography, although the walk in itself is also a photo opportunity at every turn.
Selecting this stunning location as your wedding venue is also putting your faith in nature being kind. Whilst there are indoor spaces, the magic is outdoors and being willing to embrace the weather come what may is part of the spirit of being in this stunning ethereal setting.
Jupiter Artland is at it’s best for those in love with the outdoors, who appreciate art and nature and are open to working heavily with their chosen photographer. There is effort in making your way around the landscape and you need to be ready to pick up your wedding dressed go with the flow.
If you are looking for a wedding venue near Edinburgh that is unique, intimate and offers a backdrop for truly stunning images, I can think of no better venue than Jupiter Artland.
About The Photographer
Tony is a professional wedding and social photographer, based in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is a former alumni of Napier Photographic School.
