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Sustrans, a charity which designs and builds traffic-free paths for cyclists and walkers, secured SAC funding to commission a series of site-specific artworks along the 19 mile Bathgate to Airdrie cycle route.
The artists were invited to respond to the character, history and identity of the Central Belt of Scotland. The artworks make reference to the coal mining industry, the old railway line and the atmosphere and character of the area.
This particular public art project demonstrated a significant level of partnership collaboration and local consultation through residencies and workshops.

Artists

• Jeremy Cunningham
• Anne Elliot
• Doug Cocker
• John Hunter
• Loci Design
• Paul Matosic
• Todor Todorov
• Sarah Neville

Funding

SAC Award amount

£89,565.00

Project total cost

£120,221.00

Funding purpose

Towards the cost of providing contemporary artworks along Airdrie to Bathgate railway path.

(Please note dates and details correct at time of award.)

Consultation & Commissioning Process

Workshops and artist residencies helped to develop an ongoing consultative process with the local community.
“Such partnerships were mutually beneficial in defining the character of the artwork and production of a site specific project; in promoting the project and its aims, in creating a sense of pride in the work which translates into a reduction in vandalism; and finally in improving the image of the area.”
(from Sustrans Report February 1997, page 7)

A previous project, “The Ideas Bank” provided the foundation for the commissioning process. From the original open competition, six artists had their proposals selected from The Ideas Bank. Further artists were invited into the project at a later date.

Outcomes

• Legs: series of 6 pairs of legs constructed in metal.
• Keyhole: metal sculpture tunnel through a “bing”; also metal castings of schoolchildren’s keyholes
• Poured Metal: steel
• Birch Circle: 2 sculpted curling stones surrounded by natural stone wall and designed landscaping.
• Writers: banners incorporating photographic images and text.
• Steam: steel sculpture
• Tower: cast concrete
• Lightboxes: metal sculpture “tunnel”.
• Sundial: steel and concrete