The 'So Deep In Luve Am I' mural in Mauchline is influenced by Robert Burns and his wife Jean Armour.
It was installed in October 2026, as part of wider regeneration through the Mauchline Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS).
The mural is located on the gable wall of the Castle Café, 3 Kilmarnock Road, Mauchline, KA5 5BD, within the courtyard facing the Burns House Museum and Library.
Internationally renowned artist James Klinge was appointed to install the mural by the project steering group.
Project steering group
The project steering group included:
- East Ayrshire Council elected members: Councillor William Lennox and Councillor Linda Mabon
- Former East Ayrshire Council CARS Officer
- East Ayrshire Council Regeneration Officer
- Owners of 3 Kilmarnock Road (Castle Café and residents)
- Ayrshire360 Visual Arts Officers
- Representative from the local Burns Club
Commissioning process
The steering group received over 10 bids, shortlisted and interviewed three artists, then appointed James Klinge.
The concepts
These are based on a modern interpretation of Robert Burns and Jean Armour, with Robert reading from a published edition while Jean sits alongside him, sharing the moment.
The designs aim to celebrate Mauchline's cultural heritage while fitting sensitively within the conservation area.
Design approach
Colours have been selected from the Mauchline Conservation Area Management Plan palette, including:
- fir green
- moss grey
- beige
- oyster white
- purple red
- pastel turquoise
Background colours are intentionally blended with lighter complementary tones to create texture and visual interest rather than flat colour blocks.
The human figures retain natural skin tones similar to the artist's previous mural work.
View James Klinge's artwork on his website
Artist's proposals
James Klinge's design proposals are below:
Engagement East Ayrshire: Mauchline Mural Developed Concepts (PDF 574 KB)