Dumfries initiative attempts to highlight the overlooked

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A three-year cultural initiative that amplifies the voices of under-represented communities through public art, storytelling, and creative campaigns has been launched in Dumfries.

Martin O’Neill, project lead and artistic director of The Stove Network – Scotland’s only arts-led development trust – said: “Hear | Here is about giving a platform to voices that have long contributed to the identity of Dumfries but have often been overlooked. We seek to weave these voices into the ongoing civic conversations about the future of our town.

“With a strong emphasis on advocacy, citizenship, and human rights, Hear | Here comes at a pivotal moment for Dumfries with themes of regeneration, climate change, and cultural integration. This project, in collaboration with local organisations, charities, and community groups, blends creativity with activism to inspire a future that values diversity and cultural heritage.”

Hear | Here was kick-started at The Stove – Scotland’s only arts-led development trust – with an evening of talks, films, and a walking experience to the Suspension Bridge, known as ‘Biddall’s Bridge’ within the show communities.

That was a pointer to the fact that, in its inaugural year, the project is to celebrate travelling showpeople who have been Dumfries’ cultural and civic life since the mid-1500’s – although fairs have been staged on the banks of the Nith for at least 800 years.

This continues today with Dumfries celebrating the heritage by hosting two of Scotland’s six remaining traditional street fairs – the Rood Fair in September and the Spring Fair in March.

Hear | Here is being delivered this year in collaboration with Fair Scotland – a charity founded by Scottish showpeople, artists, and researchers. Their partnership in this project builds on the success of previous initiatives, including campaigning to see showpeople included in the 2022 Census, a decade-long collaboration with the Riverside Museum in Glasgow, and ongoing efforts to preserve and promote their intangible cultural heritage.

Dr Mitch Miller and Dr t s Beall, who are co-chairpersons of Fair Scotland, said: “Dumfries is hugely important to Scotland’s showpeople, and the March and Rood Fairs are woven into our family histories and collective memories.

“These are major fairs, an important part of Scotland’s heritage, and we hope, of our collective future.

“Hopefully the conversations this project will open up can allow all of us to secure that.”

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