Hospitalfield, the historic Angus house which has developed an international reputation as a residential centre for artists, is to launch its plans for the future at a special event later this month.
A new Board of Trustees has been developing a business plan with the help of human resources and information management experts at the University of Abertay Dundee, which has long been a supporter of Hospitalfield.
The grade A-listed building on the outskirts of Arbroath was left in trust by its owner Patrick Allan-Fraser in 1890 for the study and practice of the visual arts and became Scotland’s first fine art college. Now, over 100 years later, the Trust has ambitious plans to develop Hospitalfield as a centre of art and culture for Angus.
Trust Chairman Mr Kenneth Cargill, former head of news and current affairs at BBC Scotland and now a member of the Court (governing body) of Abertay University, said, 'Hospitalfield is well known in international art circles as a place of inspiration, unique character and tranquility but in Angus it has remained a hidden jewel - unknown to all but a handful of local people. Now, with the support of the communities of Angus and with expert help from Abertay, we aim to change that.'
Full details of the plans will be revealed closer to the launch event on Monday, March 15th. They are expected to include establishing a new network of Friends of Hospitalfield, developing a programme of cultural events and widening Hospitalfield’s use as a venue for events including dinners and weddings. A new website will also be launched.