Applied Arts Scotland is launching a new service called craftnews scotland which aims to create an affordable way for applied artists to promote their work and an easy way for journalists to access information about Scottish designers.

A monthly news release with a selection of quality images will go to a wide range of journalists across the UK working in national newspapers and supplements, Scottish national newspapers, national women’s magazines, radio, TV, design and style magazines.  The information will go to editors writing about fashion, style, home, interiors and shopping. 

This new service will run as a pilot for 6 months with the first news release going out in June 2005 in time for the Christmas features in national women’s magazines

The service is to promote quality Scottish craft and design so participants will be chosen by a selection panel including a journalist, designer, PR consultant and a crafts expert.

The concept is to create a ‘pr collective’ so by each paying a small amount AAS will be able to pay for a professional service.  Each person selected will be asked to pay £50 for the first six months, which will cover postage, stationery, telephone, design and professional PR advice.  All you need to have to be able to apply is good quality images of your work. 

If you are interested in being part of this new initiative contact Applied Arts Scotland, Edinburgh College of Art, School of Design and Applied Arts, Hunter Building, Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9Df  tel: 0131 221 6143 e-mail: office@appliedartsscotland.org  or download an application form in Opportunities & Training. The deadline for applications has been extended to Friday 3 June 2005.