Edinburgh’s new guide supports the creative journey of artists by identifying spaces and opportunities for support in the city.
Following extensive engagement with artists, the guide sections and content were developed to provide information and tips to help navigate a new industry and home environment. This also encourages networking, engagement with local communities and better understanding of the opportunities Edinburgh offers for creative collaborations and artistic ambitions.
Developed in partnership with Creative Edinburgh in response to growing diversity in the city, the online guide can be read in more than 130 languages. It comes after the recent addition of a translation and audio transcription functionality to the Council’s website.
Artists and creatives who have recently settled in the city can also benefit from subsidised premium membership and mentorship opportunities through Creative Edinburgh.
Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said:
Thanks to our world-renowned festivals, heritage sites, and community art spaces, Edinburgh has attracted a culturally diverse community of artists over the centuries.
There really is inspiration to discover all over the city so it’s no surprise that so many choose Edinburgh as the place to develop their careers.
I’m delighted that we’re now able to give creatives and artists the opportunity to learn more about Edinburgh’s cultural life and the support available to them to ensure they have the best possible start in the city.
Ola Wojtkiewicz, Executive Director at Creative Edinburgh, said:
Artists, makers, and creative practitioners are at the heart of what makes Edinburgh unlike any other city. For the past fourteen years, Creative Edinburgh has proudly supported thousands of creatives across the city—that’s why we exist as a charitable organisation.
We’re especially proud to collaborate with the City of Edinburgh Council on the Multilingual Cultural Guide. As a multicultural and multilingual team ourselves, we deeply value the importance of welcoming artists from around the world and helping them thrive in Edinburgh. This spirit of inclusion is part of what makes the city so vibrant.
As part of our ongoing partnership, we’re delighted to offer 25 fully funded Premium memberships and a series of tailored mentorship opportunities for artists from diverse heritage backgrounds. These initiatives are designed to help creatives navigate their careers in a new environment and make the most of the rich support available to them in Edinburgh.
Marcin Krupa, visual artist and gallery curator, said:
I arrived in Edinburgh 12 years ago with a couple of hundred euros in my wallet. Right now, I work for an art school, and I am a gallery curator. It wasn’t always an easy journey, but I believe that in Edinburgh there is a great creative potential and a plenty of opportunities.
I was able to achieve my dreams and financial independence thanks to generous people living here and thanks to various organisations that supported me. When I came to Edinburgh, I felt I was surrounded by people who are willing to help me. I felt accepted and became part of the local creative community.