Inaugural Creative Mackintosh Festival launched
HOLLYWOOD superstars Brad Pitt and Barbara Streisand are counted among his biggest fans and now the work of innovative Glasgow architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh is being celebrated in a two week festival from October 15 – 28.
Glasgow City Marketing Bureau (GCMB) has teamed up with Stena Line to promote the vibrant city as part of its Autumn Short Breaks campaign and is encouraging people in Northern Ireland to visit the Creative Mackintosh Festival and discover one of Scotland’s most treasured architects, designers and artists.
Mackintosh’s work propelled architecture from Victorian flamboyance to modern minimalism, and a century later, this Festival will showcase his work and honour his contribution by encouraging everyone to unleash their creativity.
Thirty activities, performances and events will take place across the fortnight including some surprise “appearances” by Mackintosh himself courtesy of interactive performance company Mischief La-Bas.
Visitors can enjoy recitals and performances in Mackintosh buildings throughout Glasgow and roll up their sleeves and try crafts such as drawing, knitting and photography, inspired by Mackintosh’s work.
GCMB’s Senior Marketing Communications Manager Elaine Dickie said, “The Creative Mackintosh Festival presents a fantastic opportunity for people in Northern Ireland to come and experience Glasgow’s cultural heritage and join us in celebrating one of the city’s best-loved sons.
“Glasgow is known as one of the world’s most creative cities, having spawned world-class artists and musicians for more than a century,” she continued.
“This October I would encourage everyone with an interest in art and architecture to explore Glasgow and discover the world of Mackintosh. There is also fantastic food, the best shopping in the UK outside London and lots of fun attractions just a short ferry crossing from Belfast.
“Stena Line has a great range of packages for people travelling from Northern Ireland to Glasgow whether they are going by car, coach or rail,” Elaine added.
The Creative Mackintosh Festival runs from October 15 – 28, 2012. For the full programme and further details log onto www.glasgowmackintosh.com. To book special travel packages with Stena Line click on www.stenaline.co.uk/glasgow, call 08432 081 811 or contact your local travel agent.