A new artwork created to mark the launch of this year’s census will be visiting two Lanarkshire towns as it tours the nation.
The unique creative work will be stopping off at Cumbernauld’s Antonine Shopping Centre on March 8 and Castle Street in Hamilton the following day.
Visitors to the census roadshow are being encouraged to help “fill in” the Scotland Connected artwork during its trip around Scotland before it reaches Edinburgh on Census Day (March 20).
A census of the population has been taken every 10 years in Scotland since 1801, with the exception of 1941, because of World War Two and in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is used to plan vital public services and inform investment in areas such as education, transport, health and social care.
The new artwork has been designed by Pilar Garcia de Leaniz, a Spanish artist based in Edinburgh.
Her creation – Scotland Connected – represents the fabric of Scotland, its people and the role of the census.
Local communities will have the chance to colour, or fill in the artwork in the run up to its unveiling on Census Day.
There are actually two versions of the artwork touring Scotland to ensure as many people as possible can get involved.
One will be on display at the census stand at Antonine Shopping Centre from 9am to 5pm and again in Hamilton the next day.
Pilar Garcia de Leaniz studied as a Master of Illustration at Edinburgh College of Art where she is currently a Teaching Fellow in Textiles.
She said:“The artwork is a visual representation of the fabric of Scotland, showcasing its people, landmarks and the benefits of the census.
“It’s inspired by a desire to show everything that’s great about Scotland and I’m excited to see the artwork come to life over the coming weeks as it tours communities.
“It’s been a real honour to be a part of the project and have the chance to produce a piece that captures the essence of the census and the way in which it benefits communities across Scotland.”
People will also be able to explore the census roadshow stand where they can learn about the census, its importance, and where to find support to fill it in.
Scotland's census asks questions on a range of topics, including the types of accommodation people stay in, household relationships, age, sex, health and employment status. New questions for the 2022 census include use of on British Sign Language (BSL), passports held, sexual orientation, trans status and previous armed forces service history.
Angus Robertson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture said: “The census helps the Scottish Government, local government and other service providers to plan services and make decisions about how public money will be spent on major services in our communities, including schools, roads and hospitals.
“It’s essential we maximise participation and ensure that everyone is heard and their needs captured.”
Pete Whitehouse, Director of Statistical Services, National Records of Scotland, said: “I would encourage anyone who wants more information about the census to come down and visit the stand as we tour Scotland’s communities. Our friendly team will be happy to provide information on Scotland’s Census.”
Help and support is available for anyone who needs it at: census.gov.scot or via the free helpline 0800 030 8308.
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