"What a Voice" exhibition: Uncovering the Gypsy Traveller Community - Aberdeenshire

From Aberdeenshire Council

An exhibition of information and art prepared with the input of the Gypsy Traveller community is on display in Aberdeenshire during September and October.

‘What A Voice’ has been researched and produced by Article 12 in Scotland, a non-governmental organisation, in conjunction with young Gypsy Travellers, and will be displayed in various locations across Aberdeenshire.

The free exhibition depicts the history and culture of the Gypsy Traveller community through a mix of words and images. It is aimed at exploring the lives of the Gypsy Traveller community.

Article 12 in Scotland has lent Aberdeenshire Council two exhibitions for display. They will be on show in the following locations:

Tue 11 – Thu, 13 Sep County Hall, Low Street, Banff

Thu 20 – Fri, 21 Sep Council Chamber, Saltoun Square, Fraserburgh

Mon 23 – Tue, 25 Sep Council Offices, Viewmount, Stonehaven

Wed 26 – Fri, 28 Sep Stonehaven Leisure Centre (GP room)

Tue 2 – Fri, 5 Oct Council Offices, Viewmount, Stonehaven

Tue 2 Oct Finzean Village Hall (following conclusion of Marr Area Committee)

Mon 8 – Tue, 9 Oct Committee Room 2, Gordon House, Inverurie (11.30am on Mon 8, until 1.30pm on Tue 9)

Mon 8 – Thu, 18 Oct Council Offices, Arbuthnot House, Peterhead
and 31 Oct

Mon 15 – Tue, 16 Oct Inverurie Town Hall (small hall upstairs)

Fri 19 – Fri, 27 Oct Stewarts Hall, Huntly

Mon, 29 Oct Ythan Centre, Ellon (12pm-6pm)

The exhibitions will generally be available to view during office hours unless otherwise stated.

Leader of Aberdeenshire Council, Councillor Jim Gifford, said: “I very much welcome this exhibition which provides interesting information on the Gypsy Traveller community and their historical role in Scottish culture.

“It is up to us as a council to challenge negative stereotypes about any sector of society and I hope that council staff, elected members and local residents make the time to view these exhibitions and think about the messages being promoted.”

Deputy Leader, Councillor Martin Kitts-Hayes, said: “Generating understanding is key when it comes to tackling prejudice and this is an accessible and interesting way of promoting a positive insight into the Gypsy Traveller community.”

Independents’ Co-ordinator Councillor Norman Smith added: “This is a very worthwhile project and I hope it will be very well received in all the locations it is displayed in across Aberdeenshire.”