Education

A piece of public art has been commissioned for the University of Abertay Dundee’s (UAD) new student accommodation that will link the modern development with the location’s history as a site of jute mill workers’ tenements.

Currently being constructed by specialist university sector construction firm, Ocon and designed by Hurdrolland Architects, the £19.75 million, 498-bedroom ‘Opal 1’ scheme in the Parker Street area of Dundee is due for completion in the summer.

Local artist, Adrienne McStay, has been commissioned to create the work that will serve as a reminder both of the location’s industrial heritage and of UAD’s contribution when it was founded in 1888 as the ‘Dundee Technical Institute’ to support local commerce.

Courses offered by the university in the 19th century included textile manufacture, which enabled the jute manufacturers to train the technicians and managers required for Dundee’s mills. The 4m high metal sculpture, inspired by the bobbins that held the thread used to make the jute fabric, will be unveiled when the building is handed over by Ocon in August.

McStay explained: “The bobbin is an iconic image from Dundee’s Jute processing era and a distinctive shape that lends itself to a sculptural treatment. My vision for this piece of art is to present the form of a jute bobbin in a modern way.

“Using metal, glass and light the sculpture will represent the university’s 100+ years of supporting Scotland’s commerce and industry, historically by training workers for the jute industry and latterly by developing the skills needed to lead the way in the 21st century technical revolution.”

Clive Williamson, managing director of Ocon, commented: “The Opal 1 scheme will significantly enhance student and conference guest accommodation in Dundee. It is built on a site that played a significant role in Dundee’s past, for an academic institution that helped build the city’s industrial heritage, and is now inspiring a new generation to pursue careers in 21st century industries.

“We look forward to celebrating that heritage when both the public art and finished development are unveiled in the summer.”

For further information please contact www.oconconstruction.co.uk