UNESCO has announced Perth is to join their Creative Cities Network as a City of Crafts and Folk Art – the first in the UK.
It was confirmed yesterday the Fair City will join a global group of cities from over 50 countries across the world in celebrating craft, including Jaipur, Cairo and Carrera.
Perth’s application was written during the pandemic, led by Perth and Kinross Council and with extensive consultation amongst craftspeople and makers. Further work with the creative and business sectors is expected to take place early next year.
The Creative Cities Network was launched in 2004 to promote cooperation among cities which recognise that creativity is a major factor in their development.
The Perth bid focused on the importance of craft to the history and heritage of the city – it was formerly known as ‘Craftistown’ in the early 16th century because of the importance of trades and its Incorporation of Guilds.
The bid also highlighted the climate change challenge and how PKC plans to include craft as part of its plans to reuse and recycle and meet its carbon neutral commitments.
PKC leader councillor Murray Lyle said yesterday: “There are wonderful examples of craft all around us in Perth and Kinross and I am sure this award will lead and inspire even greater creativity.”
New chief executive Thomas Glen added: “Having recently joined the council I have been struck by the rich history of craft in Perth and Kinross which stretches back hundreds of years and remains hugely important today.”
James Bridge, chief executive and secretary-general for the UK National Commission for UNESCO, said: “Known for over 500 years as a centre of craft production and trade, the city’s new UNESCO status pays homage to the heritage of Perth and carries forward the traditions of its makers and practitioners into the future.”
