ALLOA'S Cycle network is on track for a make-over thanks to an initiative which will introduce temporary outdoor artworks on the routes.
Reachout With Arts In Mind has partnered with Sustran and Alloa Academy to present 'Shapechangers', a Scotland-wide initiative which will see artwork created by young artists drawing inspiration from the local area.
The project is funded by Sustrans, a charity that looks after the National Cycle Network to make it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle.
The artworks along the pathways will aim to make people’s journeys more enjoyable and encourage more public engagement with local cycle paths.
A total of four young people have been selected to produce the artworks which are currently being created in Reachout With Arts In Minds art studio with the support of professional artists.
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They will be launched onto public display on Wednesday, November 22, on the National Cycle Network Routes 76 or 767 passing through Alloa’s town centre.
Reachout With Arts In Mind's executive director, Lesley Arthur, said: "We are delighted to be empowering local young minds through this public art commission along Alloa’s cycle paths.
"This project will not only beautify our community but also fosters a profound sense of ownership and creativity, forging a brighter path towards a vibrant, inclusive future."
Bruce Phillips, Network Engagement Coordinator for Art and Diversity at Sustrans Scotland, added: "Shapechangers is all about supporting young creative people in Alloa and across Scotland to transform journeys on traffic-free pathways through outdoor artworks.
"It is inspiring to see the pupils rise to the challenge to temporarily change their urban environment. Usually, opportunities like this are only offered to artists with years of experience. Reachout with Arts in Mind and Alloa Academy have done a brilliant job at mentoring this next generation of artists."
Artist facilitator Jen Bradley said she believes engaging local young people for the public art commission will empower young people in our community.
"Enhancing our urban landscape will improve health and wellbeing in Alloa, and the use of ceramics in the project is an important connection with Alloa’s ceramics industry," she added.
"The project will support creative mentoring opportunities, encouraging autonomy and providing young people the platform to be heard through the development and display of their creative practices.”
Dr Janet Adam, Community Around the School Lead for the Clackmannanshire Family Wellbeing Partnership, said the project was an "amazing opportunity" for the young people to work with professionals in a different environment and to have their work displayed in their local community.
She said: "What a legacy for the young people and their families! Furthermore, the opportunity to be mentored by professional artists will prepare these young people really well for employment, further or higher education.
"In more general terms, this project has the scope to enhance wellbeing and capabilities, to improve self-esteem and increase pride in the local area. I can't wait to see what the young people create.”
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