Local projects given boost by Council funding

9.00.00am GMT Fri 9th May 2008

Stuart Currie, Depute Council leader and Liberal Democrat Councillor for Preston/Seton/Gosford, has unveiled a new local landmark in Prestonpans - five totem poles crafted by local residents of all ages as part of a community art project and sited at the entrance to the library.

The totem poles were developed by the Prestonpans Library Art Project, which started in late November 2007. Artist Susheila Jamieson worked with local adults and children who volunteered after spotting a poster in the library. The group elected to make a group of totems - the length of the totems allowing several people to work at the same time. Around 14 children and 8 adults worked on the totem poles, devoting their Saturday mornings over 10 weeks.

A small celebration was held at Prestonpans Library on 9 May 2008 to mark the completion of the totem poles, attended by library staff, volunteers and their families. Stuart, who spoke at the event, said: "The impressive results speak for themselves. This is an inspiring project that has seen a group of dedicated individuals come together to craft a legacy that will be enjoyed by the community for many years to come."

He added, "This is just another example of how the new Council administration is helping to fund local projects that help bring communities together for a common purpose. I hope we will be able to help other such projects across East Lothian so that other communities can experience the same enjoyment that has clearly been felt by those working on the totem poles."

The sculpture, which cost £4000, was funded through the Council's Percent for Art programme and by its Arts Development Service.