Recently-launched national arts funding body, Creative Scotland, is to spend £6.5 million as part of plans to promote Scotland ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
The three-year programme, which will begin next year to coincide with the London Olympics and run until 2014, will aim to increase the number of tourists to Scotland and celebrate the country’s creative industries.
Creative Scotland – launched a little over a year ago as a merger of the Scottish Arts Council and Scottish Screen – is to invest £6.5m of National Lottery funds in the move.
A series of ‘Creative Places Awards’ to recognise Scots communities with a strong track record of organising successful cultural events and a fund designed to boost mass participation in the arts are among the initiatives included in the plan.
In a statement issued by Creative Scotland, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, is quoted as saying: “Scotland is known across the globe for its rich culture and heritage and is increasingly recognised for its contemporary and creative cutting edge.
“In 2012 and 2014, the eyes of the world will be on the UK. These present wonderful opportunities, both large and small, to highlight Scotland’s cultural and creative strengths on the international stage and across our communities.
“Through Creative Scotland’s £6.5 million investment and the rich creative activity across our vibrant cultural sector, 2012 will act as a nationwide showcase for our cultural assets and outstanding new work.”
Andrew Dixon, chief executive of Creative Scotland, adds: “The £6.5m programme will present opportunities for the whole nation to get involved and it will also develop new partnerships between the cultural sector and the tourism and heritage sectors.
“Creative Scotland aims to reach every community across Scotland through the three-year programme.”
