scene stirling symposium a success

The event was hosted by Stirling Makar Laura Fyfe.

A special symposium held at the Tolbooth last month provided a platform to celebrate the achievements of Stirling's place partnership, Scene Stirling.

Hosted by Stirling Makar Laura Fyfe, the artist-led event took place on Tuesday 20 June, bringing together over 60 creatives and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the city's thriving arts, culture and heritage scene.

Eight of the 50 artists and creatives to receive funding through Scene Stirling's grants and commissions scheme were invited to speak at event to showcase the diversity of Stirling’s arts and cultural scene: from Stephen McAll, frontman of Constant Follower and filmmaker Omar Aborida to aerial artist Hannah Uttley and ceramicist Rebecca Wilson.

Artists funded by Scene Stirling were invited to showcase their projects at the symposium, including Constant Follower frontman Stephen McAll.

Kevin Harrison, Manager of Scene Stirling, expressed his appreciation for the support and engagement the partnership has received over the past three years: “With funding from Stirling Council and Creative Scotland, we have actively collaborated with over 100 local artists, organisations and community groups.

“The partnership has played a pivotal role in promoting and advancing Stirling's arts and cultural ambitions, including supporting a bid for UK City of Culture and the development of a new cultural strategy.

“Our digital and climate commissions and community work, have also seen the creation of new and exciting creative networks across Stirling.”

Artists expressed the transformative impact that funding has had on their creative practice.

During the symposium, participants engaged in a series of roundtable discussions focused on collaboration, resilience, access and equity.

Kevin added: “As the symposium drew to a close, there was a real sense of anticipation and excitement. The event not only celebrated the accomplishments of Scene Stirling but also galvanised attendees to forge ahead and work together to deliver their vision of a culturally vibrant, collaborative and inclusive arts scene.”

Creatives shared a diverse range of projects from music videos to creative workshops.

Reflecting on the work of the place partnership, Council Leader Chris Kane acknowledged the collective effort and determination exhibited by the city's cultural partners, artists and communities. 

He said: “The symposium showcased Stirling’s ambition and commitment to nurturing its cultural heritage and it was a fitting occasion to share the priorities of the refreshed Cultural Strategy.

“The strategy was shaped by the aspirations of our communities and will be the framework for our future cultural ambitions.”

Watch the symposium back in full here: