CTLR art project gets on the road
Kinross-based artist, Nichol Wheatley, has met with community groups in his role as artist in residence for the Cross Tay Link Road project.
Mr Wheatley will work with local communities in creating a series of legacy artworks which will be positioned throughout the new road corridor and pathways.
Nichol has enjoyed a varied career since graduating from Glasgow School of Art in 1993, but he is best known for his paintings of the Scottish landscape, particularly Kinross-shire, his large cycle of murals telling the story of Tam O’shanter, and his work with Alasdair Gray.
Over the years he has gained a wealth of experience in public realm art and has worked as the arts consultant for several infrastructure projects.
Wheatley commented: “Most large infrastructure projects now have artwork at their centre and there is a growing evidence base that demonstrates how enhanced civic space can improve mental health and positively shift the ambition of an area.”
Aiming for up to nine locations, it is the intention that the artistic focal points provide a strong sense of identity, and support wayfinding and orientation using the rich history and culture of the area.
Wheatley continued: “Whilst each individual artwork will stand individually, it is our aim to build a coherent body of work that can be enjoyed by drivers and passengers using the new road, and active travel participants using the pathways and cycle routes.”
Local residents attended the meetings in Scone and Luncarty at the end of April, with a variety of ideas and themes coming to the fore.
These included treasure trails, the history and farmlands surrounding Bertha, imaginary creatures on the Green Bridge, racehorses and structures that could unify young people in the area.
Wheatley is also keen to see the use of Scone Palace and its landscape, local ecology and any one of fourteen archaeological monuments within a 1km proximity of the new road.
Jillian Ferguson, roads infrastructure manager for the council, commented: “Collaborating with communities across the life of the project is a key objective for BAM Nuttall and Perth and Kinross Council, and the project team is striving to improve the lives of local people by enhancing the areas they work, live and relax in.
“By involving everyone at this early stage, it is our hope that the artwork will generate a sense of pride and enjoyment for all.”
William Diver, BAM Nuttall project director said: “It has been really encouraging to see resident participation, and to be building positive engagement.
“Where possible, the artworks will be completed and installed in line with each section completion with the first expected to appear at the end of summer 2023.”