Dundee unveils £1m arts campaign

Dundee has launched a £1 million fundraising campaign to help with the recovery of its cultural sector.

Businesses, philanthropists and other private donors are to be asked to help offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the city’s arts organisations.

The city’s new V&A museum, the Dundee Contemprorary Arts Centre, Dundee Rep, Scottish Dance Theatre, Dundee Science Centre and the Dundee Heritage Trust, which runs Discovery Point and Verdant Works, are all expected to benefit from the campaign.

The Dundee-based Northwood Charitable Trust has pledged £500,000. to help get the new culture fund up and running.

Trustee Christopher Thomson said: “For us, championing the cultural recovery in Dundee is not only about safeguarding our world-class venues but also, importantly, ensuring that their wider economic impact and learning and community programmes continue to benefit everyone in the city.

“People and organisations throughout Dundee have come together to achieve remarkable things before, not least the creation of V&A Dundee itself.

“We hope that our contribution to the challenge fund inspires our community to ensure that our vibrant cultural scene remains a beacon for regeneration and prosperity in Dundee and beyond.”

Tim Allan, chair of V&A Dundee, said: “Dundee’s major cultural organisations are the beating heart of the city. Their success is crucial to Dundee’s recovery from Covid-19, with their widespread economic and social benefits felt across all communities in the city.

“The Dundee Cultural Recovery Fund will enable generous private individuals and businesses to support the visitor economy in the city, and to invest in the future economic success of the city’s cultural sector.”