Creative industries to mark year of design in Scotland

SCOTLAND’S creative industries are set to host a series of festivals and celebrations as 2016 becomes the year of innovation, architecture and design.

VisitScotland launches the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design 2016 with a homage to the iconic Mackintosh coat, invented by Scottish chemist, Charles Macintosh in 1823.

Events throughout the next 12 months will include a festival of architecture and a promotion of designers at Fashion the Future in Orkney.

The National Museum of Scotland is currently undergoing a £14 million redevelopment but it will celebrate its 150th anniversary with the opening of 10 new exhibits showcasing collections of decorative art, design, fashion, science and technology.

The new £1.4 billion Queensferry Crossing bridge will also officially open over the year.

Four Scottish creatives including a fashion blogger, designer, architect and games developer, dressed in traditional Mackintosh raincoats ensure the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design launches with a splash outside the iconic Rennie Mackintosh building.

It is hoped that such events will boost tourism in Scotland.

Linda Fabiani, SNP MSP and convener of the cross-party group on architecture and the built environment, said: “Scotland has a huge amount to be proud of in our contribution to architecture and design, both historically and in our contemporary industries - and this is a welcome opportunity to pay tribute to those who work in our creative industries.

“Not only will these events attract tourists and support our domestic industries, they will allow those in Scotland the opportunity to appreciate the incredible creative and architectural heritage of our country.”

Last year, Scotland celebrated the year of food and drink, as overseas and domestic visitors to the country increased by an estimated 7%.