City of culture legacy plans announced for 2014

Londonderry has been given £450,000 by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland to continue work begun during its year as the first UK City of Culture.

This sum of money has been matched by Derry City Council out of a fund earmarked for building upon the legacy.

The £900,000 fund will be used for a range of music, fashion, storytelling and visual arts projects.

The fund will be open for applications in January 2014.

'Global Rainbow'

The legacy fund has been established to ensure continued investment in the arts and cultural sector in Derry. It will build on the achievements of the year and help with the long-term targets of Derry's regeneration plan.

The city will host a public launch event on 17 January as a 'thank you' to everyone who participated in the year's events.

This event includes a giant rainbow across the sky created by international artist Yvette Mattern, as well as live musical performances from Little Bear and the Clameens on the Guildhall stage.

Mayor Martin Reilly said: "Derry City Council's legacy promises are about providing cultural sustainability and encouraging communities and visitors to continue their connections with culture and the city.

Balloons floating across the city during Music City Day 2013

"During Music City 2014, Derry City Council will be hosting music concerts with local and international artists. I am also delighted to announce a dedicated website, First Break, to match musicians with venues across the region."

Music concerts have also been confirmed for the Beach Boys and will feature as part of the Foyle International Maritime Festival between 20 and 29 June.

Arts Council chairman Bob Collins said: "The arts have transformed this city and we are now making a substantial commitment to continue our partnership with Derry City Council to ensure arts and culture continue to help regenerate the city, particularly in the most deprived communities."

Derry City Council will also be working with local talent, international designer Wayne Hemingway and partners within the City of London on new fashion events for November.