Art and Contemporary Practices students explore art in the public realm in Dundee
UHI Perth Year 3 BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Practices students recently travelled to Dundee
As part of their Art in the Public Realm module, the students explored how artists and arts organisations engage with communities and use creative practice to make a positive difference in people's lives.
The day began at art and mental health charity Art Angel, where students learned about the organisation's work using art to engage the public while supporting mental health and wellbeing. They also heard from Connor, a former UHI Perth student who completed the same module and undertook a placement with Art Angel before progressing into employment with the organisation. His experience provided an inspiring example of how placements and socially engaged practice can lead to rewarding professional opportunities.
At Generator Projects, artist Luck introduced students to the artist-run gallery and its commitment to public engagement, inclusivity, and supporting artists from working-class and minority backgrounds. Students also gained valuable insight into establishing and managing artist-led creative spaces.
The group then visited Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA), where Mairi from the education team led an engaging tour of the current exhibition. The visit highlighted how gallery education programmes help a wide range of audiences connect with contemporary art. Students also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of DCA's print studios.
The final presentation was delivered by Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust (THAT), with Iona discussing the organisation's work and demonstrating how creative activities can support health, wellbeing and recovery in healthcare settings.
Students described the trip as highly inspiring, saying it broadened their understanding of the many ways artists can work with the public, communities and organisations beyond traditional studio and gallery environments.
Simon Reekie, UHI Perth lecturer explained: "The Art in the Public Realm module is about helping students understand the many ways artists can engage with people and communities. As both an educator and art psychotherapist, I'm particularly interested in the potential for art to help people connect, participate and improve wellbeing. The organisations we visited showed students four very different, but equally valuable, approaches to putting those ideas into practice."