Arria sculptor Andy Scott meets Cumbernauld College students

Andy Scott took time out from fashioning his giant steel sculptures at his studio in Maryhill to meet NC Art and Design students students at Cumbernauld College.

They certainly had plenty to talk about – for not only does Mr Scott intend to bring ANOTHER artwork to the town at some point, the students are looking into this too.

It has emerged that a treasured piece of green space will be the dramatic setting for two new artworks created by a former student of Cumbernauld College.

Cumbernauld Community Park will be the home of brand new sculptures by Charlotte Hamilton. These will be the first pieces of public art to feature in the scenic stretch of land which lies north of the M80.

We understand that the artist has drawn on the area’s rich Roman and drover heritage to create these new artworks – and that the college and Friends of Cumbernauld Community Park are currently awaiting funding to cover material costs,

During an informative presentation, Andy gave some insight into his other creations, which include the Beacon of Hope in Belfast and the Heavy Horse on the M8 near Glasgow.

He said: “It’s always great to see the work the students at Cumbernauld College are producing.

“I previously visited the college during the Arria project and was impressed by the level of work being carried out by the students.

“It’s good to continue this interaction with the college and I am always willing to offer a professional eye to students working on public art projects of their own.

“I was interested to hear of the students’ plans to provide sculptures for Cumbernauld Community Park. Public art enhances the environment by elevating the mundane and it’s wonderful to see it being embraced by the students and the local community group,” he said.

Art and design lecturer Steven Hart said: “We were delighted Andy could speak to the students as it is always great to hear from professional artists.

“Andy now has strong links to Cumbernauld thanks to Arria and it was good for the students to discuss their own public art projects for the town. His visit has no doubt given them new inspiration for their own public art creations,” he added.