Two new benches have pride of place in Gorgie-Dalry and are already brightening up the area.
The benches were designed by local artists, Yvonne Weighand Lyle and Katriona Gillespie, who say they were inspired by the natural and social heritage of the area. Both are members of Gorgie Collective, a local arts and cultural organisation.
The City of Edinburgh Council has installed the benches in front of White Park on Gorgie Road, and also beside the Coop on Dalry Road.
Chair of Gorgie Collective, Katriona Gillespie, explained the project: “Yvonne and I are both very passionate about where we live and we began this project as a way of bringing more street art to our local public spaces.
“The Gorgie bench features plants found in our neighbourhood’s parks and gardens and the central design is inspired by points on a compass, including local landmarks that are meaningful to me such as Tynecastle and of course The Diggers!”
Fellow artist Yvonne Weighand Lyle added: “The benches represent a link between people and place. The Dalry bench design captures the skies above Gorgie-Dalry at the time we developed the designs, when there was a conjunction of the moon and Saturn. This abstract celestial map then also features plants, industry and people situated in the urban landscape.”
Sarah Boyack, Lothian MSP said: “Its inspiring to see the Gorgie Collective’s work supporting the local community. These sculptural benches don’t just look fantastic, they’ll provide a much-needed area for the people in Gorgie and Dalry to sit and enjoy their community”
Independent Councillor for Sighthill-Gorgie, Ross Mackenzie, said: “Gorgie Collective artists Yvonne and Katriona have been doing excellent community-led work for several years here in Gorgie-Dalry, providing free creative workshops and public artwork for local people to enjoy. I am delighted to see these high-quality sculptural benches installed. They are beautifully designed by local artists and also offer important added amenity to our high street.”
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