Sustain:Engage is a two-year project to support the development and promotion of best practice in art collections in healthcare settings. This includes updating documentation, improving accessibility, and engaging local and rural audiences through reinterpretation and rationalisation of the GHAT Collection.
Micro-Commissions
Part of this work includes identifying and addressing gaps in representation within the Collection. We commissioned new work by artists that better reflect the local population, to be accessioned into the Collection.
We invited creative practitioners to submit proposals for a series of commissions, and have awarded 4 commissions worth £2000 each, to artists; Rowan Flint, Naomi McIntosh, Kate Cameron Reid, and Kirsty Russell.
Doric interpretation
As part of an effort to engage a variety of local and rural audiences, we have commissioned Doric writer Jo Gilbert to create poetic responses to the Collection, and stories around it.
As part of this commission, we extended funding to four more Aberdeen based Scots writers; Mae Diansangu, Fiona Robertson, Shane Strachan, and Judith Taylor.
We held a launch for the ‘Waymarkers’ poetry pamphlet at the Bon Accord Baths in late May. Copies of the pamphlet are free from The Suttie Art Space in ARI.
Curators
We have been working with assistant curators Scott Smith and Abygael Urquhart, and NHSG staff to curate the Jubilee Hospital in Huntly, and the physiotherapy department in Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin. This included working with staff and service users at each hospital to shape and interpret the exhibition of works.
Sustainability
Every year the Collection welcomes a placement from the University of Aberdeen’s Museum Studies course. This year, as part of Sustain:Engage, the students on placement curated and interpreted an exhibition of works from the GHAT Collection, with a focus on the environment and sustainability. Read more about the exhibition here.
Focus Groups
To support our work improving interpretation and accessibility, we have been working with volunteer focus groups. Their input has been invaluable in shaping updated labelling, presentation of work, and new displays of artwork.
Collaborations
The Collection team has been getting out and about, working with local partners like Aberdeen Performing Arts, Michie’s Pharmacy, and Bon Accord Baths, and our national sector colleagues including Tonic Arts, Artlink Central, and Art in Healthcare.
See how we are involved with the Royal Scottish Academy’s 200th anniversary celebrations here.
Sustain:Engage has been made possible with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Creative Scotland.