Defining Aberdeen / Public Natter

20 July

In the exhibition 'Architecture in Scotland 2004-2006 / Defining place defining space in their own way. Peacock visual arts gives the project a local touch by organising the public natter: 'Defining Aberdeen.'

As the City and Shire get a ‘Brighter Outlook’ we discuss what defines place in Aberdeen and what we make of our city. What other than granite makes the city sparkle?

'Defining Aberdeen' takes place on Thursday 20 July, 6pm, in the restaurant of His Majesty's Theatre. Admission free.

The Panel

• Stuart MacDonald (ex-director of the Lighthouse, new head of Gray’s School of Art)
• Michael Gilmour (architect, Michael Gilmour Associates)
• Alan Moat (Grampian Housing association)
• Bill Brogden (recently retired Reader in Architecture, Scott Sutherland School of Architecture, RGU)
• Alan Grant (Langstane Housing association)
• Karen Tolmie (Scottish Enterprise Grampian, behind the 'Brighter Outlook' campaign - tbc)

Everyone is welcome to join the audience and take part in the discussion.

Questions and themes

Introduction / defining Aberdeen ‘Defining Place’ is the theme of the Lighthouse touring exhibition. What is it that defines place in Aberdeen? And what defines Aberdeen other than granite?

Branding Aberdeen The City and Shire recently got branded by the campaign ‘A Brighter Outlook’. What does this brand mean and why was this chosen? Is this an effective brand? What is the purpose of the brand? Is there evidence of successful branding elsewhere? Can branding change the city or ‘only’ give a new surface image? Who decides upon this? What is excluded by the brand?

Contemporary architecture versus granite tradition Traditionally Aberdeen is famous for its granite architecture. New buildings in and around the city however often seem to want to ‘imitate’ the material and style out of respect for the built environment. To what respect is this the right attitude? To what respect could and/or should more progressive contemporary architecture contribute to the branding of Aberdeen?

The impact of new developments on city life What makes public life in the city and how is it affected and directed by changes in the built environment? How do developments, such as the continued expansion of the Bon Accord Quarter retail area, or the emerging plans for a new cultural centre, affect the city?