Orkney Islands Council is calling for submissions from artists and writers with proposals for a public art installation to mark the centenary this year of the birth of one of Orkney’s most prominent cultural icons - George Mackay Brown.
Emma Gee is the Council’s Arts Officer: “We’re looking for proposals which will provide a destination to mark George MacKay Brown’s influence in and on Orkney, for both its residents and visitors, and tell something of the cultural life of Orkney."
The installation should be a collaboration between artists and writers, and be suitable for public spaces. It can involve any medium but needs to have a lifespan of 10+ years and operate in an un-staffed public context, with minimal management and repair requirements.
An overall budget of £6k for the installation, made up of £3k fees for practitioners, and up to £3k for materials and installation costs. The project will involve public engagement, including school involvement, and monitoring and project evaluation.
George MacKay Brown, acclaimed 20th Century Scottish poet, playwright and author was born on 17 October 1921, 100 years ago this year. He died on 13 April 1996, 25 years ago this year, just three days shy of St Magnus Day. A son of Orkney, his memory is still fresh in the minds of friends and family, and his cultural legacy is evident in his words and the co-development, with Sir Peter Maxwell Davis, of the prestigious international St Magnus Festival.
Proposals will be reviewed by the project panel including officers of Orkney Islands Council and Visit Scotland.
Proposals and enquiries should be submitted to Emma Gee, Arts Officer, Orkney Islands Council Offices, School Place, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1NY
Telephone: 01856 873535 Extension 2406 or email Emma Gee.
