Arcade

More about the book

Glasgow's industrial growth in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries resulted in significant unemployment and overcrowded housing, particularly in the Gorbals area south of the River Clyde. This location serves as a key entry point to one of the UK's most industrially vibrant cities and holds historical importance due to the diverse ethnic groups that have settled there over the past 200 years, impacting the UK's and Scotland's international relations. Since its establishment, various efforts have aimed to improve the Gorbals, culminating in the recent demolition of the notorious 1960s tower blocks, replaced by modern, low-rise flats. As this regeneration project concludes, 20 artists have collaborated with architects, developers, and the community to create both permanent and temporary works that resonate with the area's identity. This documentation captures the insights of artists, academics, architects, and commentators involved in the Gorbals' regeneration. It explores the challenges faced during the project and highlights the participating artists' contributions, reflecting broader shifts in architecture and public art. This work is valuable for artists, arts commissioning agencies, architects, urban planners, and anyone interested in art, culture, and the processes of urban regeneration.