The latest winners of Dewar Arts Awards were announced yesterday (Wednesday 20th September) at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow during an evening celebration attended by the Culture Minister Patricia Ferguson, many people from the Scottish Arts and Academic communities. These rolling awards, set up in memory of Scotland’s First First Minister Donald Dewar, are given to young Scots of outstanding ability in any art form who have insufficient funds to realise their creative potential.

In the last year, 37 candidates were successful from over 130 nominations and the trustees have funded applications worth over a quarter of a million pounds. This total includes awards made under the Daughter of Dewar scheme to allow young musicians to access better instruments. Some former Dewar award winners provided a “cabaret” for the guests, giving a flavour of the breadth and depth of talent available.

Patricia Ferguson commented: “Scotland has a rich, vibrant and dynamic artistic and cultural life. We aim to recognise and nurture cultural talent and promote excellence. I am delighted that through the Dewar Arts Awards young people are being given the opportunity to unleash their creative potential.”

Ruth Wishart, chair of the board of trustees said that applications continue to rise and that one of the functions of the evening was to encourage members of the arts community to help the trustees in the assessment process, and offer successful candidates informal advice and support.

Amongst those who have received funding from Skye is Holly Lawson (21). Her award will enable her to continue her vocal studies at Berklee College, Boston.

Harpist, Stephanie Tinney (13) has also received an award. Savourna Stephenson says that Stephanie is “an outstanding clàrsach player … a perfect example of the revitalization of .. traditional music .. in the younger generation.” Still only 13, Stephanie has won several local and national competitions and hopes to become a professional musician. Her Award will buy a new clàrsach.

Eilidh Martin (27) received funding to buy a new cello.

Murdo Macrae (15) from Kyle of Lochalsh has been able to buy a Salvi Aurora harp with his Dewar Arts Award.