Issued: 21 Feb 2008
The Inverness City Centre Streetscape public art project has received welcome new investment with the award of £100,000 from the Scottish Arts Council National Lottery Capital Programme. The grant, which is the maximum award available, will assist five additional arts projects and underlines the Scottish Arts Council's belief that the Inverness Old Town Art programme will be of national significance.
Iain Munro, Co-Director and Head of Lottery, Scottish Arts Council said: "The Inverness Old Town project will build on the success of the earlier project and supports the Scottish Arts Council's priority of increasing opportunities to participate in the arts. This is a unique opportunity for artists and the local community to work together creatively to redevelop an important part of the city, transform the physical environment and generate civic pride."
Five new projects will be launched to develop close links with local businesses and residents to transform key sites in the old town area of the city including: the Victorian Market; the Ramada Jarvis at the end of Union Street; and Baron Taylor's Street.
The first project will focus on the Victorian Market. Three new entrance features are planned for Union Street, Church Street and Queensgate, to draw attention to the Market as a landmark in the Old Town boasting its unique collection of independent traders and specialist shops. Professional artists, designers & architects will be invited to register their interest in this design opportunity and will be selected, as part of an open process, which will involve representatives of the Market traders.
A dedicated project manager has been appointed to take the lead. Louise Mor has 10 years experience as a curator, fundraiser and project coordinator, and she is looking forward to the challenge. She said: "I am truly delighted to be given the opportunity to contribute to the public art programme in Inverness. I aim to work with the traders and encourage them to take an active part in the creative process. I'm also looking forward to joining such a talented multi-disciplinary team as Matt Baker, Susan Christie and the artists involved in other projects."
The new Victorian Market entrances are an integral part of the overall Streetscape project which is bringing public investment of over £6m to regenerate the city centre.
Provost Bob Wynd, Chairman of The Highland Council's Inverness City Committee, said: "The Scottish Arts Council award is very good news. Our city centre is having to adapt to change as all modern, thriving urban centres have to. The additional £100,000 will allow us to do a lot more in terms of the important design features that will set Inverness city centre apart and help us to create a desirable destination that reflects the culture and heritage of the city in the Highlands."