New Gaelic Arts & Culture officer

“Gaelic arts”

A new Gaelic Arts & Culture officer has been appointed in a jointly funded new post by the Scottish Arts Council and .

Based at Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Scotland’s national agency responsible for Gaelic language development, Brian Ó hEadhra’s role will involve working in consultation with stakeholders to review and, in due course, facilitate the implementation of a National Gaelic Arts Strategy.

Working with local authorities, the Gaelic Arts Reference Group and Gaelic arts organisations across Scotland, particularly the Highlands and Islands, Brian will make recommendations to the Scottish Arts Council and Bòrd na Gàidhlig on ways to develop Gaelic arts and culture.

Brian will also liaise with National Performance Companies and National Collections to promote Gaelic arts policy.

Brian Ó hEadhra about his big ambitions for Gaelic arts and culture:

“I am delighted and honoured to be appointed to this new post with the Scottish Arts Council and Bòrd na Gàidhlig.

This position allows us to continue our work in the promotion of the Gaelic language as well as ensuring Gaelic artists play a central part in Scotland’s artistic development.

‘Over the years I have been deeply involved with the Gaelic arts, both as a practitioner and organiser. I have seen at first hand how the Gaelic arts can have a very positive impact in the development of our language, culture, economy and society.

“Creative environment”

‘Through the National Gaelic Arts Strategy we not only have an opportunity to strengthen our traditional arts but also to explore newer art forms in Gaelic. I look forward to having discourse with the many organisations and individuals who wish to participate in the making and promotion of Gaelic arts. “

Ian Smith, Head of Music, Scottish Arts Council added:

“The Scottish Arts Council has been working in partnership with Bòrd na Gàidhlig to promote and develop a significant portfolio of Gaelic arts. We are looking forward to this exciting collaboration with Bòrd na Gàidhlig, which demonstrates our combined commitment to the future of Gaelic arts and having a presence in Inverness will also help the Scottish Arts Council’s general communication and engagement with the Highlands and Islands. This is a unique development for both Bòrd na Gàidhlig and the Scottish Arts Council and demonstrates the importance of the Gaelic language and Diaspora in Scotland’s thriving creative environment. ”

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