Artists are being sought to commission a public walking trail consisting of ten locations in Printfield, allowing citizens and visitors to celebrate, learn and be inspired by Denis Law, the legendary Scottish footballer who grew up in the area.
With the costs being met by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and The Common Good Fund, Aberdeen City Council and the Printfield Community are being supported by the Denis Law Legacy Trust to appoint an artist, designer or organisation to develop, create and install a series of outdoor artworks that will form the trail to promote Denis’ childhood roots.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “The council are pleased to be working in partnership with the Printfield Community and the Denis Law Legacy Trust to develop this inspiring walking trail to recognise and celebrate the roots of Denis who will forever be one of our city’s footballing legends.”
A motion on the creation of the walking trail was brought to Full Council by Councillor Neil Copland in March 2020.
Councillor Copland said: “I am delighted to see plans for the Denis Law Legacy Trail moving forward. The installation of this trail will generate a welcome boost for the Printfield area as I’m sure the artworks will be a popular tourist attraction.”
Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer, Denis Law Legacy Trust said: “Working closely with the local community in Printfield we are delighted to play a role in supporting them to deliver this exciting new project. Our ambition is that this Printfield community project will inspire local young people to achieve and show that someone like Denis Law, who started from humble beginnings in Printfield, can go on to win the Ballon d’Or.”
Gary Law, Denis Law's son said: “Dad has always been incredibly proud of his roots, growing up in Aberdeen, so I know he would be honoured by this new and exciting project which the Law family are thrilled to support. It means a great deal to our family, and it is our hope that his story continues to educate and inspire young people in Aberdeen and beyond for years to come.”
The initial deadline for submissions is Monday 15th April 2024. The submissions will be assessed by a panel including representatives from the Aberdeen City Council, The Denis Law Legacy Trust, a local Cultural Organisation, and Printfield Community. Two finalists will be shortlisted to go forward to the 2nd Stage.
The 2nd stage finalists will be awarded £1000 to develop their designs. They will also be given the opportunity to visit the site prior to the 2nd stage submission deadline of Thursday 9th May 2024.
Full details of the commission opportunity can be found on our website: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/public-art