Kingdom Housing Association has formed a community partnership with Inverkeithing Arts Initiative (IAI) to create a community arts project on an affordable housing site in Fraser Avenue, Inverkeithing, which is currently being developed by the association.
IAI was appointed to undertake the initial community consultation, which will assist with informing the key principles for the delivery of a series of art pieces in the redevelopment area.
The primary aim of the consultation is to gain a broader understanding of different areas of interest, gathering information across the regeneration area and reaching out across Inverkeithing and the wider community.
IAI’s conversations with residents looked to identify possible future arts projects, and the kinds of creative activities which could be used to celebrate and commemorate the changes taking place on Fraser Avenue.
The first stage was a taster session which took place during a Fun Day at Inverkeithing Primary School.
Families were given the opportunity to try some creative activities led by local artists and crafters. Rustic Simplicity offered the chance to build bird boxes from recycled wood, Cathy Reilly from Cate’s Home Creations was on hand to help participants with the decorative decoupage of a picture frame or glass jar, and artist Rosie Gibson was encouraging visitors to make both 2D and 3D art from their own, personal, memories.
A spokesperson for Inverkeithing Arts said: “Creative taster sessions at community events, such as fun- days, are a great opportunity for people to try a variety of different arts activities, and to meet and talk with arts practitioners who work in different media. Getting hands on with creative activities stimulates conversation and encourages people to think about their own ideas for future events and projects for their area and community. Discussions have led to lots of interesting ideas for future activities and, also, explored how permanent art structures might enhance shared community places and new outdoor spaces.
“There are many benefits to be found in communities that share creative activities, including improved understanding, diffused community tensions and strengthened cross-community links.”
She added: “Our completed report compiles all of the fascinating responses we had to our consultation, and includes our conclusions and recommendations for moving forwards with ideas for arts involvement. The next stage will be to identify which types of activities and projects the communities would like to see going forward, and to secure funding for their implementation.”
Bill Banks, chief executive of Kingdom Housing Association, said: “This is an excellent partnership project promoting public art within communities. As part of the project’s ongoing community interactions the final projects will be selected by the community. We will now begin the process of identifying potential funders for the specific art projects.”