Gibson hails Highland composer as 'Portrait of a Nation'

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE USE: 24 JULY 2008

ATTENTION: NEWS DESKS

SNP MSP Rob Gibson lodged a motion yesterday (July 23) in the Scottish Parliament congratulating Highland composer Blair Douglas for being the only Scottish art piece in the Portrait of a Nation campaign. In his motion Mr. Gibson hailed the Skye-born artist for his achievement, and cited the importance of celebrating local and national heritage.

The Portrait of a Nation campaign comprises young artists from 18 cities throughout the UK portraying their cultural roots and heritage using all kinds of mediums. It will help to close the year-long Liverpool European Capital of Culture celebrations in a spectacular festival this December.

Mr. Gibson said:

“It’s great that these young artists are given an outlet to not only explore their cultural heritage but also demonstrate how our past is key to a rich and vibrant future.

“I am proud to have a Highland art piece represent Scotland and show the world the kind of rich culture and society we enjoy.

“Mr. Douglas’ piece incorporates some exciting elements unique to Highland culture including Gaelic song, traditional music and step dance and it also uses 30 of the very best dancers from the Highlands & Islands which will be a rare treat to see when it’s performed in Inverness and Glasgow in September.”

ENDS

Copy of motion:
That the Parliament welcomes the Portrait of a Nation campaign from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Liverpool Culture Company and participating cities and places; recognises this as a platform for young people to explore and showcase their heritage and identity through arts and heritage projects as part of the Liverpool European Capital of Culture 2008 celebrations; congratulates Highland composer and artist Blair Douglas for his piece titled Dealbh Dùthcha which incorporates unique elements of Highland culture including traditional music, Gaelic song, step dance and the spoken word, and features 30 of the very best young musicians, singers and dancers from the Highlands and Islands Fèisean to perform the piece; notes that Dealbh Dùthcha is the Highlands and Islands contribution and the only Scottish representation in Portrait of a Nation; and recognises the importance of celebrating local and national heritage and giving young people the chance to express themselves and their cultural identity.