Richard Demarco to be recorded for posterity

IFACCA/Artshub, 10 July 2005,United Kingdom

The Scottish Arts Council is to sponsor a recording of the life story of Richard Demarco that will become part of the British Library Sound Archive’s National Life Story Collection (NLSC). The National Life Story Collection was established in 1987 to "record first-hand experiences of as wide a cross-section of present-day society as possible". Over the past decade it has initiated a series of innovative interviewing programmes funded entirely from sponsorship, charitable and individual donations and voluntary effort. Each collection comprises tape-recorded in-depth interviews of a high standard, plus content summaries and transcripts to assist users. Demarco’s enthusiasm and drive for supporting and promoting Scottish arts has made him one of the most influential figures in the Scottish arts world. His contributions to contemporary art have been recognised on an international scale, having been awarded the Polish Gold Order of Merit, the Cavaliere della Republica d’Italia, the Chevalier des Arts et Lettres de France and the Order of the British Empire. Demarco is currently working on the Skateraw project which will provide a home for his extensive archive at the Skateraw farm land in East Lothian. ‘I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with innumerable artists throughout my career and presenting their work, often within the context of the Edinburgh Festival,’ he says, ‘These artists represent an international family and it is my responsibility through the recording for the British Library Sound Archive to tell their stories and why they committed themselves to a cultural dialogue with Scotland. ‘I am indebted to the Scottish Arts Council for making this possible particularly when, at long last, I can work on my archive within the inspiring setting of Skateraw. I regard this as the best possible birthday present for anyone, who is fortunate enough, to reach 75!’ Amanda Catto, Head of the Visual Arts at the Scottish Arts Council, said: ‘Ricky Demarco is such a remarkable and much-loved figure in Scotland’s arts scene and his influence both in Scotland and internationally should never be underestimated. With everything that he has achieved, it is astounding that at 75, he still shows the same passion and dedication to his work that he always has. Ricky is constantly attending openings, events and exhibitions, generating support for the numerous projects he is still involved in, particularly in generating support for the Skateraw project. His contribution to Scotland and the UK arts world has been hugely significant and his recording for the British Library will be an invaluable addition to the collection.’ Mel Gooding, Chairman, Artists’ Lives Advisory Committee, said: ‘Richard Demarco is someone we have long wanted to include in Artists Lives, both because he is an artist in his on right and because he has been one of the most significant animateurs of international art in these islands during the last fifty years.’ For further information, CLICK HERE

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