This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scotland's cultural icons to be honoured
08/03/2007
A new scheme is to be established to honour the nation's most successful artists and cultural icons.
The founder member will be Scotland's Makar Edwin Morgan and he will be joined by others who, in the opinion of their peers, have made a significant contribution to their art form and to Scotland.
Culture Minister Patricia Ferguson said creative practitioners of all arts, literature, screen industries and all other creative forms of practice will be eligible.
The proposed model comprises an independent panel, appointed by Scottish Ministers, which will nominate those who will join Professor Morgan as members.
Speaking ahead of the annual Creative Scotland Awards in Edinburgh, Ms Ferguson said:
"This new scheme, a cultural academy in essence, will help recognise and nurture cultural talent and promote excellence in our national cultural life.
"It will provide inspiration to aspiring and developing artists and promote Scottish identity through art and culture at home and abroad.
"I am sure the members will be a powerful and respected body and Edwin Morgan is a more than fitting candidate to be the first member."
The Academy will be funded by the Scottish Arts Council, from extra funding given to them by the Scottish Executive following the publication of the new cultural policy, Scotland's Culture, in January 2006.
In the inaugural year it is proposed that the first members will be nominated by an independent panel, appointed by the Scottish Ministers.
Thereafter, nominations will be made by the academy itself, and may involve public votes.
Each newly appointed member will receive an annual stipend.