A Scottish law firm is urging businesses to support the cultural sector to reinforce the vital role it plays in attracting visitors and investment to the city.
Burness Paull, co-sponsor of Aberdeen’s Nuart street art festival, yesterday welcomed a report from the Scottish Government which demonstrates the impact of culture on tourism, employability, international relations and the economy.
Speaking ahead of this week’s launch of the 2018 Nuart festival, which is also sponsored by Aberdeen Standard Investments, Elaine Farquharson-Black, a partner at Burness Paull, said Aberdeen needs to consider how the city is being portrayed internationally. She said: “Derek McInnes, the manager of Aberdeen Football Club, recently challenged councillors to think about how they want the city to be portrayed by the wider world.
“While his question was posed in the context of seeking approval for a new football stadium, it is undeniable that the built environment of a city reflects the needs and culture of the people who live there.
“The responses to the Scottish Government’s consultation further highlight the need for culture to be accessible for people of all backgrounds and the positive impact it can have on communities, economic growth and education, making it a priority for Aberdeen, where the decline in the oil and gas industry has dominated headlines in recent years.
“Investment in infrastructure projects such as the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and the expansion of the harbour are helping Aberdeen to enhance its image – but we believe festivals such as Nuart are equally crucial.”
Developed with Aberdeen Inspired and the city council, Nuart Aberdeen runs from April 12-15, 2018.
