Iconic Cumbernauld Sculpture Gets Facebook Page

Commissioning body urges Cumbernauld “fans” worldwide to show their support for the project.

The body behind the 10-metre-high steel sculpture – which aims to transform the image of Cumbernauld – is calling on Cumbernauld “fans” throughout the world to show their support for the project.

Campsies Centre Cumbernauld Ltd (CCCL) is urging the people of Cumbernauld – and ex-residents now living abroad – to become “fans” of the iconic structure.

International public artist Andy Scott has been working on the £250,000 female figure for Cumbernauld since he was commissioned in September 2009. The artwork will be unveiled later this summer.

The brainchild of Campsies Centre Cumbernauld Ltd (CCCL) – a North Lanarkshire Council company set up to facilitate the redevelopment of Cumbernauld – the sculpture will overlook the A80 northbound, north of Auchenkilns Junction.

It will be of a female form, incorporating two large swooping arcs which are inspired by the original name for Cumbernauld, “comar nan allt”, which means “coming together of waters” in Gaelic.

To support the sculpture the public should log onto www.facebook.com and search for Cumbernauld Sculpture.

Councillor Gerry McElroy, chair of CCCL, said: “The idea behind the Facebook page is to not only give people living in Cumbernauld but also ex-residents living throughout the world the chance to find out about the project.

“The public will be able to view the latest news and updates about the sculpture including photographs of it being built along with images from community engagement events.”

Since the sculpture was commissioned last year, the CCCL board has carried out a public engagement campaign to keep people up-to-date with the plans for the new iconic structure. This included public exhibitions, presentations to Cumbernauld high schools and Cumbernauld College, as well as the commission of a poem written by award-winning poet, Jim Carruth, that will be featured on the sculpture.

Recently CCCL launched a competition in conjunction with the Cumbernauld News for Cumbernauld residents to name the sculpture. The name will be announced when the sculpture is unveiled.

Councillor McElroy added: “It is important that local people get involved in the project as the sculpture is for them and the future of their town.”

Part of the Cumbernauld Positive Image Project, the artwork will be seen by more than 70,000 people every day. It is hoped she will boost the town’s image.

Andy Scott recently completed key project milestones such as securing the internal bracing of the sculpture, fabricating the two sweeping arcs and over the coming month the sculpture will be galvanized.

The aims of the Cumbernauld Positive Image Project are to create a distinctive image of Cumbernauld; increase residents' pride in their town; raise awareness across Scotland of Cumbernauld's attractiveness as a destination to live, work and play; create a sense of place and provide a positive statement about the town.

Andy Scott’s portfolio extends to more than 70 public art commissions in Scotland and internationally. Many of these have become popular landmarks for the communities which they serve and have engendered a sense of common ownership within the local people.

The artist’s well-known "Heavy Horse" sculpture on the M8 motorway has become synonymous with the entrance to Glasgow. In addition, "The Thanksgiving Square Beacon" in Belfast is more than 60 feet high and has become an icon for the regeneration of that city.