The Portobello Twelve

We were commissioned to take part in Porty Art Walk, creating a colourful, geometric, site-specific piece using temporary chalk paints at Portobello, Edinburgh.

The work is inspired by the little-known story of twelve bakers’ wives who ran from Portobello Beach to the top of Arthur’s Seat. Recorded in the Mercurius Caledonius, Scotland’s oldest newspaper, the 1661 account describes a race with a prize of Dunkeld whisky, Brunswick rum and a hundred-weight of cheese (112lbs)!

A notable quote from the text reflects the attitudes of the time:

“All of the in a condition which makes violent exertion unsuitable to the female form.”

This became the inspiration for our mural - to reframe and celebrate the strength and achievement of these women.

Through bold colour and geometric form, the piece honours their story and brings visibility to an overlooked moment in local history.

Portobello Twelve - we salute you.