Wigtown book town unveils 'Big Bang' weekend
- Published
The University of Edinburgh is involved in the Big Bang Weekend in Wigtown
Scotland's national book town has unveiled the programme for its Big Bang Weekend in February.
The arts, literature and science event in Wigtown promises an "inspiring and entertaining mix" of talks.
Festival director Jessica Fox said it would aim to celebrate the point "where science and the arts collide" with a series of lectures and fringe events.
It is the second edition of the Big Bang Weekend which will run from 2 to 4 February next year.
Ms Fox said the festival organisers were particularly pleased to have a "big input" from scientists from the University of Edinburgh.
Organisers said the event looked at "where science and the arts collide"
"We'll also take time to celebrate Galloway's very own scientific giant, James Clerk Maxwell," she added.
"His work in the 19th Century on the electromagnetic spectrum may be the key to understanding life as we know it and is a great reminder of Scotland's great contribution to the world of science."
Among those taking part is Los Angeles-based comedian Jono Zalay who swapped the neuroscience lab for a career in stand up.
He said: "I was always fascinated by comedy and by science as well as by the workings on the human brain and why we act the way we do.
"For example, we are the only species that's aware of whether we are doing right or wrong - but we often do what's wrong anyway."
Jono Zalay is among the people taking part in the Big Bang Weekend
Paula Ward, VisitScotland regional director, said the Big Bang Weekend was an "exciting addition" to the events calendar in Dumfries and Galloway.
"Events like this provide a boost to the local visitor economy by enhancing our region's tourism offering and showcasing the very best of what the region has to offer all year round," she said.
"I hope as many local people and visitors from further afield will be able to come along to enjoy the great programme on offer."