A NEW art project which kicks off on Sunday is aiming to help rejuvenate Kirkcaldy town centre.
'Art in Shop Windows' is the brainchild of Fife Council and a group of local professional artists, and will see unused shop fronts transformed with innovative pieces of art.
The specially commissioned pieces are produced by Kirkcaldy-based artist group Blacksand Contemporary Arts.
Council bosses and the artists hope that by launching the initiative in one of the most depressing times of year, the art will enthuse and inspire communities, schools and visitors.
Andrew Walker, economic adviser with Council development services, has been leading the project.
He said: "Shop windows are an ideal place to exhibit art and they are an excellent way of bringing art to a much wider audience.
"Culture has a unique ability to lift people and places, and will hopefully attract new visitors to the town centre and in turn boost the local economy."
Angela Turner - Lost and Found. Video Drive In, High Street
Artist Patricia Bray, talking on behalf of Blacksand, added: "As Kirkcaldy-based professional artists we were very happy to be approached to take part.
"It provides a great opportunity to put our artwork in the centre of town where it's easily seen by the public and we hope that this is the start of further innovative partnerships with Fife Council."
The project is one of the first in Celebrating Fife 2010, a year-long programme of events designed to raise the Kingdom's profile and showcase its unique environment, cultural identity and lifestyle activities.
A special leaflet has been produced to promote the initiative and provides a map and information on the displays. It will be available in public buildings across Kirkcaldy.
Kerry Watson - A Dark Fascination. Hunter Street
The windows will feature a diverse range of work, from coloured doilies to a creative display using items washed up along the Kirkcaldy coastline.
Councillor Brian Goodall, chairman of the housing and communities committee, said: "This is a very exciting and unique project for Kirkcaldy and we are pleased that it's one of the first in the Celebrating Fife 2010 year-long programme.
"I'm very much looking forward to walking the art trail and hope that many others will also feel inspired by the local works of art."
The project runs until March 27, which is the opening date of the 'Days of Wine and Roses' exhibition in Kirkcaldy by world renowned artist Jack Vettriano.
Professional artists and designers living and working in and around Kirkcaldy formed Blacksand Contemporary Arts in 2006.
The aim was to provide mutual support, create links with other art groups and artists and establish a programme of exhibitions and events.
