Arts Council supports Derry-Londonderry City of Culture Bid 2013

01/06/2010

On behalf of the bidding team for the UK City of Culture 2013, the Arts Council recently invited Northern Ireland’s arts sector to MacNeice House to provide an update on the Derry-Londonderry bid for City of Culture 2013.

The afternoon reception for clients and guests created the opportunity for the arts community to meet with the bidding team, led by Derry City Council in a close working partnership with Ilex and the Strategic Investment Board. During the meeting, the sector was advised on the current status of the bid; the aspirations for change and legacy; and to seek their involvement in developing a regional impact for Northern Ireland.

Barry Douglas, Artistic Director, Camerata Ireland attended the briefing session and warmly endorses the Derry-Londonderry bid for City of Culture 2013.

“The North-West has a rich and varied cultural landscape which has been developing over many years and deserves to be recognized. Many hard-working people have helped put the region on the creative map and the character of its citizens is one of depth and vibrancy. Camerata Ireland and I applaud its innovation and creativity, which inspires us all and we look forward to contributing. We support the momentum to bring the arts to all people, no matter what their background.”
The Arts Council’s Director of Strategic Development, Nick Livingston, said, “The Arts Council is delighted that Derry~Londonderry has been shortlisted and is now a finalist in the competition for the title of first UK City of Culture 2013.

“Winning the designation is not only important for the city but for the entire region. If the bid is successful, it will lead to a change for Northern Ireland, not only from a social, economic and cultural perspective but also from the legacy that it will leave for years to come.

Oonagh McGillion, Temporary Director of Development with Derry City Council said: “The Derry-Londonderry team are delighted to have had the opportunity to give our colleagues from regional arts organisations an update on the bid with an outline of our mission and step changes. We are thankful for the strong endorsement for our endeavours as our campaign enters the crucial final phase of the bidding process to become UK City of Culture 2013,” he said.

For further information and to register your support for the Derry-Londonderry bid for City of Culture 2013, please log on to www.cityofculture2013.com