COLLECTIVE are delighted to launch our 2022 programme with a presentation of Cauleen Smith’s film H-E-L-L-O, which brings together themes of historic erasure, presence and loss.
H-E-L-L-O takes John Williams’ famous five-note musical motif from Stephen Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind, translating it into a greeting for sites across post-hurricane Katrina New Orleans.
The various interpretations of the sequence speak to the enduring spirit of the city. Although situated in the geography of New Orleans, Smith’s film allows us to contemplate Edinburgh’s relationship to its own landscape, inhabitants and history in a time of turbulence and change.
Cauleen Smith is an American born filmmaker and multimedia artist, best known for experimental works that address African-American identities. Smith currently teaches at the California Institute of the Arts.
H-E-L-L-Owill be screened on loop in the City Dome from 22 January – 1 May. Entry is free and there is no need to pre-book, but some social distancing measures will be in place.
Collective is currently open Thu-Sun, 10am-4pm (Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm from April 2022).
Police have welcomed the conviction of Nikolaos Karvounakis after he left an improvised explosive device (IED) in Princes Street Gardens in January 2018.
At the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, the 35-year-old Greek national pled guilty to being in possession of items for a terrorist purpose.
Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart Houston said: “Karvounakis showed a blatant disregard for members of the public by placing the IED indiscriminately within Princes Street Gardens. Fortunately, it did not initiate, but his intention was clear and there was certainly the potential to cause significant, or even fatal, injury to innocent passers-by.
“I welcome his guilty plea and conviction which is testament to the perseverance of our diligent investigation team over the last four years.
“Since the discovery of the package, officers from Police Scotland’s Counter Terrorism Unit carried out extensive enquiries, including with European partners and law enforcement agencies. They were absolutely committed to the challenging inquiry to identify who was responsible.
“The successful conclusion of this investigation today has been founded on the strong co-operation and working closely with the Counter Terrorism Network across the UK and internationally.”
Islamic Relief UK and Blackhall Mosque team up to help some of the most vulnerable families in Edinburgh.
Tomorrow, Sunday 23 January, Islamic Relief UK will partner with Blackhall Mosque to distribute 500 essential food packs to vulnerable people in Edinburgh including the homeless, asylum seekers, refugees and women who have suffered domestic abuse.
Scotland has seen a stark rise in families needing financial assistance and help with food. According to the poverty and inequality commission, one in four children in Scotland (24%) and one in five working-age people (19%) are living in poverty.
Many people have been hit hard by the pandemic, including, low-income families, those suffering from domestic abuse, the homeless, asylum seekers and refugees who were already struggling to feed themselves and many prioritising eating or heating as they struggle to pay their bills.
The food packs – will contain 30 items including, rice, pasta and beans.
With poverty levels in the UK increasing, Islamic Relief UK is also distributing food parcels across the country with different partners.
Imam Sohail Ashqaue, Blackhall Mosque, said: “We begin by thanking Allah SWT (God) for giving us all the opportunity to serve his creation. Indeed this is a blessing as we work with Islamic Relief UK to deliver 500 food packs to families who have been struggling to feed themselves this winter.
“We would like to thank all the volunteers who will help make this happen and we look forward to continuing this great partnership with Islamic relief UK to ensure the most vulnerable in our community receive the support they require.
“We are glad to be helping those in Edinburgh as part of a wider distribution by Islamic Relief UK and partners that are taking place across the UK.
“With rising utility bills and many businesses not recovering from the pandemic, many people are facing huge insecurity towards their future.
“The hardship that many families and individuals are dealing with right now is unimaginable, and this distribution will go a long way to help alleviate that.”
Nadeem Baqir, Regional Community Fundraising Manager, Islamic Relief UK said: “We are proud to be working with Blackhall Mosque to reach out to some of the most vulnerable people in Scotland. The Mosque plays an important role in the community and has been a lifeline for many people.
“With the high cost of living and the pandemic, we have seen families struggle to pay for just the essentials such as food and warmth and many have had to resort to food banks.
“This winter, the work of Blackhall Mosque will make a huge difference to many families and we thank them for their amazing efforts to help those in need.”
New Carnegie UK report: GDWe: A spotlight on democratic wellbeing
Carnegie UK has published a new report GDWe: A spotlight on democratic wellbeing, research andpolling which shows that democratic wellbeing in England is under severe threat.
This research was conducted by YouGov polling between 12th – 13th December 2021, which coincided with a heightened focus on levels of trust in government. The results are stark:
● 2 in 5 people in England (41%) now say that democracy is not working. People see the biggest current threat to our democracy as a loss of trust (32%) followed by corruption (16%).
● 76% of the public in England don’t trust MPs, while 73% don’t trust the UK Government.
This report builds on Carnegie UK’s work on Gross Domestic Wellbeing (GDWe) – a holistic alternative to GDP as a measure of collective wellbeing. We use data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) Wellbeing Dashboard to calculate GDWe.
However this national wellbeing dataset underrepresents the importance of democratic wellbeing, with only 2 indicators out of 41 measuring this aspect of our lives.
At Carnegie UK, when we talk about democratic wellbeing we are referring to the extent to which we all – collectively – have a voice in decisions that affect us. Wellbeing cannot be ‘done to’ people, it has to be done by and with them.
Yet, in order for people to feel positive about participating in democratic processes and decision making, it is essential to have public trust in government at all levels.
GDWe: A spotlight on democratic wellbeingfound that in addition to a loss of trust there are also issues with current levels of participation in decision-making; misinformation, and misalignment with commonly held public values.
Other aspects that help make up democratic wellbeing, such as involvement in public participation and citizen engagement, are also poorly measured in the UK.
This report calls on government to invest in democratic wellbeing by increasing participatory democracy and improving transparency, as well as focusing on measures of national success in keeping with people’s priorities, rather than relying solely on economic measures.
The full report is available here and you can add to the debate on Twitter using the hashtag #GDWe
Brilliant EV6 voted best car for 2022, offering 328 miles of range, super-fast charging capability, space, refinement and class-leading warranty
Victory marks breakthrough Korean manufacturer’s second overall win at the Awards, known as the UK’s motoring Oscars, in past four years
What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2022 in association with MotorEasy held at Grosvenor House hotel in London’s Mayfair
BMW takes the most class wins with five victories; Ford wins awards for best small SUV and best performance SUV; Tesla Model 3 is best large electric car
The Kia EV6 electric car has been crowned What Car? Car of the Year 2022.Its victory was announced at a glittering ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, with the awards held in association with MotorEasy.
It is the second time Kia has won the overall What Car? Car of the Year Award – and the second time it has won with a new electric car, having taken its maiden victory in 2019 with the Kia e-Niro.
Underlining the breakthrough progress enjoyed by Kia in the electric era, it is only the third non-European manufacturer to win the top prize at the What Car? Awards, which began in 1978.
The Kia EV6 stood out for setting new benchmarks for electric cars, offering an official range of 328 miles, and managing 224 miles on a charge when What Car?’s testers ran it in near worst-case low temperature conditions. It is also capable of super-fast, 800V charging, with its battery capable of going from 10-80% in as little as 18 minutes.
In addition, the EV6 earned praise from the judges for being hugely spacious, very refined even by electric car standards and for being sold with the reassurance of a standard-setting seven-year warranty.
What Car? editor Steve Huntingford said: “Once again, Kia has set a new benchmark for an electric vehicle. The EV6 is a terrific all-rounder that answers electric car buyers’ questions around range and charging times brilliantly, and which offers terrific space, refinement and value for money.
“Kia’s progress has long been impressive, but it is the way that it has seized the opportunity offered by the transition to electric cars that has made it a leader in the market. Coming hot on the heels of its victory with the e-Niro in 2019, this Car of the Year win cements its position alongside Tesla as one of the most exciting electric car makers on the planet.”
Kia UK President and CEO Paul Philpott added: “It’s a great honour for Kia to win Car of the Year at this year’s What Car? Awards, particularly given the high regard with which they are held by customers across the UK.
“The EV6 is a truly exceptional car and it’s just the beginning of things to come from Kia on our rapid journey to electrification. This is tangible recognition that Kia is fast becoming a true leader in electric vehicles having also won this award with e-Niro in 2019.”
Other big winners on the night included BMW, which recorded an amazing five category victories. It won the prizes for the best Luxury SUV (with the BMW X5), Executive car (BMW 3 Series), Luxury car (BMW 5 Series), Coupé (BMW 4 Series) and Convertible (BMW 4 Series Convertible).
Ford was the next most successful manufacturer, with three category wins: Small SUV, sponsored by Solera cap hpi, (Ford Puma), Sports SUV (Ford Puma ST) and Pick-up (Ford Ranger). Tesla was also a notable winner after recording a record-breaking year for sales, taking the Large Electric Car category, sponsored by Ohme, with its Model 3.
What Car Car of the Year Awards 2022 in association with MotorEasy
With the role of the Councillor changing dramatically over the last few years, the time is right to review the job – and its pay, COSLA said this week.
COSLA President Councillor Alison Evison says there has to be a ‘realistic’ review of remuneration for the role, and called for the Scottish Government to look at Councillors’ salaries.
The current offering of £18,604 per year simply ‘does not cut the mustard,’ said Councillor Evison, especially given Councillors work on average, 38.5 hours per week according to our research.
COSLA is now calling for Councillors to be paid the Real Living Wage, as a minimum.
“In less than five months, on May 5, Scotland once again goes to the polls to elect the representatives who are the closest to their communities – their local Councillors.
“The Survey we are releasing today is a pivotal opportunity to think about the kind of modern Councillor we want, and about the changes that we need to make to attract candidates who could make a real difference to communities across the country.
“Together with my elected member colleagues, I already passionately believe in local democracy as a real positive force for good within our communities – that is why we stand for election. However to meet the next challenge we need realistic and proper remuneration that better reflects the role of a modern day Councillor.
“All of us within Scottish Local Government want to harness the power of a more locally democratic way of doing things, to enable a more diverse range of voices at the decision-making table, and to overhaul participation in council policy-making across the country – but people need to be properly remunerated to make this rhetoric a reality.”
Councillor Evison continued: “The current salary for a councillor is £18,604 and that quite frankly does not cut the mustard.
“A survey undertaken by COSLA as part of removing barriers to elected office work clearly shows that councillors from all political parties and none feel that the time has arrived for this new, radical and bold approach to Councillors’ remuneration as part of a wider package of action to increase Councillor diversity and address financial barriers to elected office for underrepresented groups.
“We are excited about what can be achieved, but we know that to attract a more diverse range of people to the role of the modern Councillor simply will not happen without a commitment from Scottish Government to look at Councillor remuneration.
“We are not asking for anything too bold, our starting point is that as a minimum, Councillors should be paid the Real Living Wage for hours worked.
“There would rightly be uproar if Councils did not pay their employees the Real Living Wage – therefore why not Councillors, who according to our survey findings work 38.5 hours per week?
“The Real Living Wage would still only put Councillors in the same bracket as the Care/Retail and Hospitality Sectors.”
Holyrood’s Finance and Public Administration Committee has warned that Scotland’s public finances are likely to face increased pressure next year and beyond.
While forecasts show increasing optimism that the Scottish economy will return to pre-pandemic levels by mid-2022, emerging evidence suggests that the recovery and economic performance in Scotland is not as strong as in the UK as a whole – primarily due to a reduction in oil and gas activity.
The effect is likely to put more pressure on Scotland’s public finances, according to the committee’s Budget Scrutiny Report.
Furthermore, with UK Government capital grants down by 9.7%, borrowing to the £450 million maximum permitted is required to enable a 1.2% increase in infrastructure expenditure after inflation.
The Scottish Budget is limited by the forecasts of the independent Scottish Fiscal Commission (SFC), beyond which the Finance Secretary cannot go.
In evidence the SFC said: “The overall Scottish Budget in 2022-23 is 2.6% lower than in 2021. After accounting for inflation, the reduction is 5.2%.”
The committee says more work is needed to understand what lies behind these economic and demographic trends and how best they can be addressed.
Today’s report explores the issues in more detail. Next week sees the Stage 1 debate of the government’s Budget Bill.
Finance & Public Administration Committee Convener Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“The Committee agrees with the Scottish Government that it faces a challenging year, with further decreases in resource expenditure in the two years that follow.
“It’s clear that with UK Government grants continuing to decline, further fiscal flexibility for Scotland must be considered. Borrowing limits are too constrained and are being eroded by inflation. Tax rates remain unchanged but, as in the rest of the UK, inflation will bring more people into higher bands.
“To ensure Scotland’s public finances are placed on a more sustainable footing, productivity, wage growth, demographic change and labour market participation should be a key focus for Scottish Ministers.
“Transparency in the full and timely presentation of figures is also essential, particularly regarding COVID-19 funding, how it is allocated both by the UK Government and subsequently by Scottish Ministers, and the impact of this expenditure.
“As part of the Fiscal Framework review, both the UK and Scottish governments must consider and agree a process by which Barnett consequentials are clearly communicated, to bring greater certainty over what is ‘new’ and what is ‘reprofiled’ money.”
Experts reimagine five British landmarks if they were made from glass
Research reveals why glass should be used in architecture in 2022
With structural glass quickly becoming one of the most reliable building materials due to its many applications and low costs, five of the UK’s most iconic landmarks have been given a makeover and reimagined as glass buildings.
Following a 23% increase in interest for the search term ‘glass architecture’¹ and a further 22% jump in searches for ‘sustainability’², leading UK glass manufacturer, Specialist Glass Products, has worked with a final year graphic design student3 to envisage five famous UK landmarks if they were made from glass.
From the House of Parliament to Leeds Corn Exchange, the reincarnations share insight into why the eco-friendly and 100% recyclable material would be suitable for each landmark.
The Houses of Parliament
With the UK Terrorism threat level labelled as substantial, The Houses of Parliament, lying on the north bank of the River Thames, could be a prime target for a terrorist attack.
Andrew Taylor, managing director at Specialist Glass Products, explains, “The use of toughened and bomb-proof glass in the design of The House of Parliament would withstand bomb blast performance requirements and provide greater security from severe weather and durability in elevated temperatures; an essential feature to protect against the UK’s widespread changes in climate.
“In addition, with many confidential conversations taking place, acoustic and white diffuser glass would also need to be heavily integrated into the architectural design to minimise sound and ensure privacy within meeting rooms, and more importantly, the high court.”
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Designed by Sir William Bruce 1671, also known as Holyrood Palace or Holyroodhouse, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official home of the British monarch in Scotland.
Every year, Queen Elizabeth II spends one week in residence here at the beginning of each summer.
Andrew reveals, “With July temperatures averaging a daily high of 21 degrees Celsius in the UK, room temperatures can get stuffy and uncomfortable, especially if in direct sunlight.
“By implementing energy-efficient coated glass into the design, you can help keep interiors cool in the hotter months without opening windows or installing air conditioning.
“Using energy-efficient glass would also mean more natural light and less artificial light, which is better for your health, eyesight and can even reduce stress.”
Leeds Corn Exchange
Built between 1861 and 1863 by Cuthbert Brodrick, Leeds Corn Exchange is now a boutique shopping centre for independent retailers.
Retail business owners must attract foot traffic, especially those without digital platforms, as more retail companies sell everything online day by day.
Andrew advises: “Store frontage is integral to keeping retail businesses competitive and current, showcasing what’s inside and, more importantly, who is inside.
“Leeds Corn Exchange would benefit from the use of ‘Clearsight’ glass. This type of glass would ensure a clear view and no reflection thanks to its anti-reflective coating, minimising glare and significantly reducing any light reflection to less than 1%.
“Compared to the 8% on conventional glass, this is a massive difference; any passer-by would see any display items thanks to a crystal clear window.”
Cathedral of Dublin
Christ Church Cathedral was founded in 1030 by Sitric, King of the Dublin Norsemen!
Like many other church buildings, as the building is so old, the cathedral can often be very cold due to heat loss through gaps in the surfaces of the roof, exterior walls, windows, and floor.
Andrew explains, “Renowned for its beauty and architecture if the Cathedral of Dublin installed integrate energy-efficient glass walls, flooring and roofing this would improve indoor comfort, save money on energy bills and reduce mould, leaks and condensation.
“As well as keeping interiors cool, energy-efficient glass units can allow heat and light from the sun to pass through the glass, as well as reflect and contain heat from radiators or fires. The use of toughened glass will also provide visitors with a higher sense of security.”
Conwy Castle
Built by Edward I, during his conquest of Wales, between 1283 and 1289, Conwy Castle is perfectly placed in a picturesque environment.
Andrew reveals: “We can curve glass up to 3200mm x 5000mm, which could easily be used to recreate the great towers of Conwy Castle. Not only could the walls be made of glass, but the internal spiral staircases as well.
“Unlike conventional wooden staircases, the sturdy, toughened glass used to create a glass staircase provides extended durability and a beautiful contemporary look.
“If the castle were built from glass, there would be fantastic views of Snowdonia, the harbour and the narrow streets of Conwy from every corner!”
Andrew adds: “Whilst we have only imagined what famous UK landmarks could potentially look like, glass can be used in the construction of almost every home, office and public building worldwide.
“Due to its functional and decorative qualities, the advantages of using glass do not end at the aesthetics. Allowing natural light to spread through, the material saves money and energy resources, keeping homes and workplaces warm in the winter yet cool in the summer. Therefore, saving energy on heating and air-conditioning.
“Glass is also 100% recyclable, so if it is ever removed or replaced, it can be broken down and transformed into a new product. If you value energy efficiency, sustainability, and security, glass is the material for you.”
Find out more about the uses of glass in architecture and interior design:
