The Council and East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust have launched their search for an artist to co-create the area’s COVID-19 memorial project with local communities.
The project, Remembering Together, is a national programme of remembrance, funded by the Scottish Government and managed by greenspace scotland. Remembering Together – which will result in memorial projects in each local authority – aims to bring together communities and artists in reflection, hope and healing.
Artists and practitioners of all creative disciplines can now apply for the first phase of the project with their role focused on working with communities across East Dunbartonshire, including those who have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, to generate ideas on what the memorial will be.
Remembering Together will result in a piece of art such as a physical structure, garden, artwork, play or piece of music or virtual exhibition, and aims to not only commemorate local people who lost their lives, but those who have experienced loss and change as well as celebrating the ways in which East Dunbartonshire communities came together during unprecedented times.
Jim Neill, Chair of EDLC Trust said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has affected us all and while it’s not over, as we almost reach the second year anniversary of the virus we are beginning the process of creating our memorial project in East Dunbartonshire.
“It’s important that the different communities throughout East Dunbartonshire play a vital role in co-creating what will be a lasting memorial for everyone in the area. The successful phase one artist will work alongside individuals and groups; sharing experiences and coming up with ideas for a fitting local tribute.”
Cllr Vaughan Moody, Joint Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council and Depute Chair of EDLC added, “It has been a difficult and challenging time and the effects of the pandemic will be with us for years to come.
“We hope local residents and community groups will get involved in the Remembering Together project and support the artist to ensure that the memorial created is one that recognises and commemorates the impact the pandemic has had on us all.”
Artists have until Monday 7 February to respond to the brief which can be found at remembering together
Residents and community groups can find out how to be part of the project by emailing Culture01@eastdunbarton.gov.uk