On a sunny afternoon, armed with a telephoto zoom not to disturb the game, I went to Dock Park to document some families playing crazy golf.
Dock Park, developed at the end of the nineteenth century, epitomises the Victorian idea of green spaces in urban centres where people of all walks of life could enjoy nature free of charge. It is the oldest park in Dumfries. Understandably I keep eyeing it as a promising ‘urban repose’ lifestyle location for one of my Urban Portraits Dumfries project sessions as the the 9-hectares park features some historic structures and is often used for local events and festivities.
Dock Park was recently renovated and revitalised to transform a rather tired looking urban location into the one that fits the needs of the contemporary town inhabitants. A lot of effort was invested to create an attractive and entertaining place in the heart of Dumfries. The 2014 relaunch ceremony was attended by Earl and Countess of Wessex. The newly designed and built Peter Pan themed crazy golf course was a hit and Prince Edward and Sophie couldn’t resist to take a swing.
Of all the park structures I particularly favour this lovely mini course for its fun potential. Well, it was good enough for the royal couple, wasn’t it?! The photos below are my sketches/observations of the location – I was looking for authentic interactions and experiences of the real families playing the game.
