Laying Down the Challenge

A new study commissioned by HI~Arts, the arts development agency for the Highlands and Islands, sets Five Challenges for the continuing development of the Visual Arts in the Highlands and Islands

In recent times the Visual Arts have experienced remarkable growth. Artist groups, studio trails and private galleries are now a significant part of Highlands and Islands life economically, socially and culturally. Cultural access and the development of creative industries will be defining issues in the region’s future.
 

Recognising the importance of the Visual Arts to education, economic growth, community regeneration, and tourism development, HI~Arts commissioned Georgina Coburn, a regular contributor to HI~Arts’ Internet journal Northings, to undertake a comprehensive study into the current state of the visual arts in the Highlands and Islands.

Throughout the summer of 2006 Georgina travelled the length and breadth of the area, personally interviewing over 270 artists, curators, gallery managers and arts officers. Her resulting report sets Five Challenges in the fields of: Communication, Infrastructure, Professional Practice, Education and Vision.