Emma Roddick MSP meets artists at Inverness Creative Academy

Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick has met with local artists at a visit organised by the Scottish Contemporary Art Network (SCAN). The visit to the Inverness Creative Academy, which is the Highlands’ first major creative hub, was an opportunity for the MSP to discuss the contemporary art sector and how she can support it in her role.

Ms Roddick was shown the current exhibition of art by Gael Hillyard, which features work created during a residential in Fair Isle, Shetland. She also engaged with artists on a range of topics, from traditional oil painting to more modern media forms like risograph printing and zines. The visit provided a chance to discuss how these different media contribute to the Highlands’ cultural landscape.

Ms Roddick said:

“I was so pleased to meet with local artists and see the incredible work they are doing right here in Inverness. It was a great opportunity to hear about the breadth of talent and creativity we have in the Highlands, from established forms to innovative modern approaches. I believe that art is a vital part of our culture and our economy, and I am committed to supporting the creative sector in the region.

“The success of the Creative Academy since it was taken over by Wasps, and the vast different types of art created under its roof, shows that we are not short of talent locally. It’s so important that creatives have the space and support in the Highlands to do what they do best, and not feel they need to move away to succeed.

“We have a duty to make sure funding and other support for artists is as broad and flexible as possible; it won’t do artists, creativity, or the country any good to force artists to work in boxes. Contemporary art takes so many forms, and I’m keen to hear more about how artists can be better supported to keep creating it locally.

“I look forward to continuing to engage with creatives across the region, and with SCAN, to discuss how I can support the sector as an MSP.”