Creative voices from across the Highlands have come together in Strathpeffer to help shape the region’s ambitious bid to become UK City of Culture 2029.
Around 80 artists, performers, writers and cultural practitioners gathered at Strathpeffer Pavilion this week as part of the Inverness Highland bid, which is being developed under the name Beò 2029, the Gaelic word for living.
The event brought together people from across the region to explore what culture means in the Highlands, the stories communities want to tell and the legacy a successful bid could leave for future generations.
Participants discussed both the strengths and challenges facing the Highland cultural sector, while examining how the bid could showcase the region nationally and internationally.
The ideas and experiences shared during the discussions will now help shape the final bid document, which is due to be submitted in August.
Bryan Beattie, Beò 2029 bid director, said:
“Today’s conversation demonstrated the incredible passion, creativity, and ambition that exists across the Highlands.
“The ideas, experiences and perspectives shared by these cultural creators will play a vital role in shaping a bid that is modern, authentic and truly reflects the creative energy that exists across the Highlands.
“I want to personally thank everyone who took the time to join us.
“This was just the beginning of the conversation, and the bid team will continue to work with artists, communities, and cultural organisations across the region as the bid develops.”
The Highland Council Leader Raymond Bremner said the bid offered an opportunity to challenge perceptions of the region and celebrate the culture that already thrives across Highland communities.
He said:
“The Highlands is often underestimated but there is a rich and vibrant culture woven through our communities.
“It’s not something that is manufactured, it’s a real living culture found across our villages, towns and city every day.
“The bid is about celebrating our way of life, redefining what people think of when they think of the Highlands, and showcasing the unique character, creativity and welcome that defines our region.
“No Scottish city or region has ever held this title before and we want to change that, but we will only succeed if the voices of our artistic and creative communities are heard.”
The gathering also marked the first steps towards establishing a Highland Cultural Assembly, which will meet after the summer and bring together representatives from different artistic disciplines and geographical areas.
Inverness Highland is the only Scottish entry to have been longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029 and is also the first bid to represent an entire region rather than a single city.
Supporters believe the bid offers a chance not only to celebrate Highland culture, but also to strengthen the region’s cultural strategy, attract new investment and create lasting social and economic benefits for communities across the Highlands.
The name Beò 2029 was chosen to reflect a Highlands that is dynamic, contemporary and welcoming, while remaining firmly rooted in its Gaelic heritage, traditions and sense of place.
