2025 was a significant year for our arts work in Scotland and internationally. Through partnerships, exchanges, residencies and cultural programmes, we supported artists and organisations to connect and collaborate across borders. The highlights below reflect the range of activity delivered over the year.
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Showcase Scotland at Celtic Connections
We supported Showcase Scotland as it celebrated its 25th anniversary at Celtic Connections in January. The music industry event brings together global talent at one of the largest roots music festivals in the world. This year 23 nations explored Celtic sounds and international collaboration. We brought international delegates to the showcase to connect with artists and explore partnership opportunities, opening up new, global audiences for Scottish musicians.
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Mehfil-Cèilidh: Scottish and Pakistani Artists Explore Shared Stories of Community
In June, we supported a cultural exchange between artists from Skye and Lochalsh and Pakistan through our International Collaboration Grants. Delivered by Atlas Arts, the project brought together two cultural traditions: 'Mehfil' (Urdu gatherings centred on music and poetry) and 'Cèilidh' (the Gàidhlig word for social gathering). Following an exchange to Pakistan in April, five Pakistani artists travelled to the Highlands for workshops and community gatherings, exploring how both communities face similar challenges in maintaining traditional ways of coming together.
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Artist Residencies: Supporting Creativity Amid Conflict
We are supporting four Scottish residencies as part of a UK-wide programme for artists affected by war and conflict. Lebanese artist Yasmine Rifaii joined Cove Park in December. Speaking about her residency, Rifaii said: "I have been craving distance from the noise of cities for a while now, so that I may sit with myself and let my thoughts brew into formation." the project will support artists from Ukraine, Yemen and Palestine. In Scotland, the programme is delivered with Creative Scotland and partners at Cove Park, Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop, Moniack Mhor and Pier Arts Centre.
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UK/Brazil Season of Culture 2025–26
In August, the UK/Brazil Season launched in Edinburgh, marking 200 years of diplomatic relations. Delivered with Instituto Guimarães Rosa, the season features over 100 projects exploring themes of climate emergency, joy and diversity. Brazil had a strong presence at Edinburgh's festivals, with highlights including Tom at the Farm and The Daily Ceilidh featuring the Brazilian Piper Band. A key project in Scotland, was the Amazônia Mapping Festival with Cryptic Glasgow which will culminate in presentations at Sonica in 2026.
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Momentum: Connecting International Arts Professionals
Each August, we bring together curators, producers and cultural leaders through Momentum, our international delegate programme at Edinburgh's festivals. Delivered with Festivals Edinburgh and Creative Scotland, the programme offers tailored schedules to foster collaboration and exchange. Since 2011, Momentum has brought over 700 delegates to Edinburgh, resulting in international seasons and new partnerships. With follow-up funding secured, the programme will continue supporting international collaboration in Scotland's arts sector.
