#ArtUnlocks

#ArtUnlocks is SCAN’s annual campaign to get people across Scotland to celebrate the power of art. Each summer SCAN calls on the public to share the #ArtUnlocks hashtag when they visit a gallery, take part in art activities, or have an artistic experience that really means something to them.  

This year, SCAN is celebrating the power of small changes. We want to remind people across Scotland of the small but vital differences art can make to everyday life, at a time when people are still experiencing real hardship. In particular, we want to emphasise that:  

  • Art and artists enhance lives and enrich communities.   
  • Art is part of everyday life but adds new meaning to everyday experience.   
  • Art gives people tools for thinking and doing in their own lives 

As part of this, Scotland’s MSPs will  be encouraged to get involved, by visiting visual art spaces, studios or galleries in their constituencies. They will be encouraged to take that message back to their parliamentary offices, where their new knowledge could make a difference to communities across the country.  

How to get involved 

SCAN is a member-led organisation. All of our advocacy projects rely on our members’ support to come to life. You can help us out by using the hashtag #ArtUnlocks and encourage your audiences to do the same. All the resources that you need to get involved can be found below.

We’d also love for as many members as possible to host MSPs at their spaces and venues. The link below also includes information on how to contact them.

The aims of #ArtUnlocks are informed by the Visual Arts Manifesto, which was created in collaboration with Scottish Artists Union and Engage.

Resources related to this project