Argyll Arts on the Web
A new web portal for the arts and cultural sector in Argyll is now on-line (www.argyll-arts.co.uk ). The portal has been developed over the last twelve months by HI~Arts, the arts development agency for the Highlands & Islands, with support from Argyll and Bute Council.
It features a comprehensive guide to festivals, galleries, arts organisations and venues in the region together with news releases, reviews, features and downloads
The launch of the Argyll portal follows a highly innovative sector mapping seminar for the arts convened by Jim Mather MSP at the Council Chambers in February, and mirrors the unquestionable contribution made by arts organisations in Argyll to economic growth, tourism and cultural life within Scotland as a whole.
In addition to being a valuable resource for visitors, Argyll Arts aims to strengthen connectivity between arts practitioners, creating an accessible platform for communication and exchange of ideas and information.
Councillor Douglas Philand, Depute Spokesperson for Arts, Culture and Leisure says: "This is a truly innovative scheme and shows what can be achieved by working together. I know it will be welcomed by everyone connected with the arts both practitioners and audiences.
"It not only brings together, for the first time, information about arts events in Argyll and Bute, but also highlights opportunities for learning, news and features about new ideas and developments. I'm sure that the new site will prove very popular."
Argyll and Bute is Scotland's second largest local authority area and has within its boundaries an enviable host of acclaimed world class culture and heritage destinations. Mount Stuart, Mull Theatre, Cowalfest, An Tobar and Cove Park are only a few examples of venues and companies that work alongside vibrant artists groups, music and education projects and voluntary sector initiatives in Argyll and the Islands.
As a development agency with a remit for the entire Highlands and Islands region, HI~Arts is pleased to have the opportunity to work with Argyll and Bute Council on the project and is looking forward to continuing this positive collaboration in support of the arts.
The arts sector like any other is finding itself negotiating a difficult path through economic uncertainties; the new web portal is a timely initiative in promoting a rich culture of innovation and creativity in one of Scotland's most iconic areas.
For more information contact john@hi-arts.co.uk