4 March 2010

Hospitalfield to launch new plans

Hospitalfield, the historic Angus house which has developed an international reputation as a residential centre for artists, is to launch its plans for the future at a special event later this month.

The grade A-listed building on the outskirts of Arbroath was left in trust by its owner Patrick Allan-Fraser in 1890 for the study and practice of the visual arts and became Scotland’s first fine art college. Now, over 100 years later, the Trust has ambitious plans to develop Hospitalfield as a centre of art and culture for Angus.

Trust Chairman Mr Kenneth Cargill, former head of news and current affairs at BBC Scotland, said, 'Hospitalfield is well known in international art circles as a place of inspiration, unique character and tranquillity but in Angus it has remained a hidden jewel - unknown to all but a handful of local people. Now, with the support of the communities of Angus, we aim to change that.'

Full details of the plans will be revealed closer to the launch event on Monday, March 15th. They are expected to include establishing a new network of Friends of Hospitalfield, developing a programme of cultural events and widening Hospitalfield’s use as a venue for events including dinners and weddings. A new website will also be launched.

Notes to editors:

This release is being distributed by the University of Dundee on behalf of the Hospitalfield Trust. The University and Trust have enjoyed a long term association, with the University representation on the organisation’s Board of Trustees.

For more information contact
Willie Payne, Director Hospitalfield wpayne@hospitalfield.org.uk 01241 872333

Carol Pope, Hospitalfield Trustee clepope@btinternet.com 07803 264755

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07854 953277