Artists bag empty city shops to show work

THEY are more often described as eyesores than works of art.

Vacant shop fronts in Edinburgh are nevertheless being transformed into mini art galleries in a bid to brighten up deserted high streets.

Bruntsfield resident Claire Craig and friend Catriona Whiteford set up Coup Red, which aims to support local artists, last December and came up with the idea of using empty shops.

The first two shops to showcase art are situated opposite Morningside Post Office but it is hoped the scheme could be repeated across the city.

Miss Craig, who graduated with a BA in Fine Art from Dundee Art School in 2007, said: "I live in the Morningside and Bruntsfield area and noticed an increase in the number of empty shops.

"One of the objectives of Coup Red is to provide a platform for young artists, so we thought we could kill two birds with one stone and make use of the empty shops."

The shop windows are currently displaying sculptures by Sophie Orton, a recent Edinburgh College of Art graduate.

The project has already won the backing of MP Ian Murray and MSP Mike Pringle, as well as receiving a warm welcome from Morningside Community Council, Traders' Association and Heritage Association.

A sculpture has been placed in each of the two shop windows - a blue cactus and a sausage dog.

"They are light-hearted and quite good fun, they aren't too abstract so we thought they would be good for the project," added Miss Craig.

"Sophie's work is humorous and a talking point. Her dog being chased by a string of sausages couldn't be more apt for a local shopping street."

The 25-year-old hopes the project will expand to include areas such as Leith Walk, where there are several empty shops.

She says there has already been a positive response to the sculptures. "They make a huge difference and brighten up the street.

"It gets people talking rather than complaining about the state of the shops. It creates a buzz around the area. We've had tremendous support from everyone, including the Ashford Property Group who own both properties. It's a win-win situation for everyone. It lifts an area because empty shops have such a negative impact."

The project has also won the support of local politicians.

Tory councillor Mark McInnes said: "This is an excellent initiative and one I would be keen to support. The more we can do to support our local traders and give Morningside the best possible amenity to encourage those who live here to support local traders, the better."

Coup Red is encouraging shop owners and property managers who have empty stores on their hands to get in touch.

Miss Craig added: "We have a never-ending supply of young artists in the city who are keen to provide examples of work and have it displayed, so there is really no end to the number of vacant shops we can accommodate."

Anyone interested should contact [email protected]