We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

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I came to Dundee from San Francisco, California to get a masters degree that is not offered anywhere else in the world: a Msc in Design Ethnography. Dundee has fostered such a creative and trail blazing thought culture that its university offers one of a kind degrees and attracts people from the worlds’ creative cities to come and live and learn there.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a distinctive culture and tradition and is big enough to have at least one of everything, that makes a city worth living in and visiting - and of course there is more to come. It also a view from the top of the Law that takes your breath away - while also looking like a child's picture book of a city. Where else can you watch - all at the same time - a train crossing a bridge, a plane about to land, ships leaving harbour, and a cityscape set in the most beautiful natural surroundings.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Finding contemporary arts - print studio is just amazing there so much talent there I can hardly pick just one thing to buy
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Although it is an established cultural asset, as a foreigner to Dundee I was surprised to find such an amazing cultural institution such as the DCA! But Dundee has many surprises in store, be it the whimisical statues on High Street or the art that surrounds you on campus buildings on a daily basis. Dundee is full of culture but never does it loose its rooting with its people and pretend it is something it isn't. That degree of down-to-earth-ness is surprising for a cultural city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Lively city minutes from sea, sand, hills and glens.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Since moving here in 2000 to start University I haven't looked back. It's the perfect mix between City and large town - big enough to be anonymous and small enough to feel friendly. It has some really good small eateries too.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm delighted that the University has introduced and encourages lots of different ethnic groups to come and live in the city. It opens up lots of different opportunities for the natives of Dundee, some of whom have never travelled outwith the city or abroad.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount of creative people in Dundee is amazing. So many creatives of all different disciplines all supporting each other where we can. Art, music, literature, design, architecture, Dundee's got it covered. It rocks.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a very clean city with no rubbish lying around. You can be sure that wherever in Dundee you choose to go for a walk whether it be in town or surrounding areas they are always clean and well cared for
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Unassuming. Despite the magnificent setting, the wonderful cultural quarter and being the gateway to some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery. The courage and vision of the Council which have led to so many changes in recent years, have created confidence but lost none of that lovely unassuming and quietly courteous quality which characterises Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love standing under the rail bridge and looking at the magnificent structure. One of my favorite views has always been on the train, when coming in, from down south, it slows over the bridge and you get a chance to take in the stunning City... this is where I show off to visitors about Dundee, its glorious "Silvery Tay", its sunny aspect, point out the Law (hill), the wind machines and tell the story of the Old bridge that collapsed and show the old stumps that are still visible.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beauty of the Tay. We have a outstanding feature that most other Scottish cities do not have.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everytime I return to Dundee it changes, it grows, it develops, it feels brighter, fresher and warmer. Standing in the middle of Reform Street between the Caird Hall and the gates of the High School is a microcosm of architectural bliss in one single sweeping panorama, that many larger cities are envious of. Steeped in history from educating monks to cow pie the city is a beacon of culture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Dundee area is like an Aladdins cave of experience, its one of those places where you pick your kids up from school, and could be standing next to a cleaner, a plastic surgeon and an artist. It never ceases to amaze me the variety of people that live here, hiding their lights under very unassuming bushes.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is home to The Scottish Dance Theatre, The Rep. Theatre, The Gardyne Theatre, The Whitehall Theatre, The McManus Art Gallery and will soon be home to The V&amp;A museum. We have staggeringly beautiful views and incidentally, the only city in Britain where you can still see Red Squirrels. Dundee has nurtured world class medical research, top notch software companies and two universities whose reputations are second to none. We have The Sensation Science Centre, Captain Scott's ship RRS Discovery and The only full-time public observatory in the UK. For a population of 140,000 that's surprising.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is very dynamic and currently the regeneration near the River is inspiring. Dundee deserves this accolade.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The views
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Moved to Dundee as a child, instantly fell in love with the city. The Old Overgate, Wellgate, Royal Arch, the city arcade, spent many a happy penny there. Was saddened when the heart was ripped out of the city but now delighted with the new vibrant Dundee that has so much to offer students and tourists alike, with so much more to come. Dundee will forever be my home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am constantly amazed by the wealth of talent in the city. From music to art and beyond, I think the people of Dundee should be recognised for their famous cultural past and the amazing work that is happening right now.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The most surprising thing about Dundee is that so many people are unaware of how good it is to live and work here. It's as if Dundee itself is a hidden secret. Dundee has all the facilities of a city and all the benefits of a big village. Not too big, not too small - just right! Everything is close at hand. Beautiful countryside and beaches on our doorstep with all the culture, sport and shops you could want. People are friendly and the city continues to get better. Having moved here over thirty years ago, I've seen United win the cup twice and have no wish to live anywhere else.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Each time I travel over the bridge by train, I am alsways filled with such pride being greeted by the simply stunning views. I've seen many a time where people have never travelled this way before are excited by the views, getting up out of their seats to try and see more, and the lovely comments you overhear people make, makes you smile from ear to ear :-) ...also, going down to Broughty Ferry Beach and watching dolphins - just wonderful. No where better in the world, and the sands and shores compete with any mediterranean coastline on a sunny day B-)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It has a down to earth attitude, some nice places to see, and is at the cutting edge as regards the technology sector. There is a lack of pretentiousness when you can get with other cities and it is rich place full of history.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Over this past year or so I have become interested in independent retailers and discovered Dundee has many of these hidden gems dotted about town! Each one unique and welcoming for you to discover on a journey of your own to find some hidden little treasure that you don't find amongst the chain stores...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The helpful people who live here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The observatory on Balgay Hill- its a gem and free to visit!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The climbing wall in the church-I think it surprises most of the people coming from continental Europe. But what I like about Dundee the most is the international environment, especially within the College of Life Sciences. We are a bunch of strangers gathered here from all around the world, and we really stick together, we are a family here, far away from home. I lived in Hungary and France before, but nowhere is as easy to find friends as it is in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the commitment of Dundee's volunteers.....most hours of the day and night there are a band of volunteers helping out those who need support. I am involved with the Dundee branch of Samaritans which has been on the go for over 50 years. There are many of us out there doing all sorts of things in our own time to lend a hand or an ear to another human being....so don't forget about them!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people of Dundee are the most welcoming and Dundee is amazing :-)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The waterfront is something that makes the city standout . As we are making it better, it will make Dundee a Scottish city landmark.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everyone is connected in some way, it's a small place
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A friendly city where you can cycle from one end to the other...on this journey one gets to experience parks with daffodils, the mighty Tay, Dundee Law, Ninewells Hospital designed by Frank Gehry and happy faces :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My recollection of first travelling out Strathmartin Road by tram will always stay with me. I am pleased that the tram depot is to be reopened as a transport museum. The tram cars were very sociable, they were where you met people, and found out what was going on. The secret was the way the turned, the conductors has to reverse the seats, and the driver changed ends!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> GENRAL GRANT'S VISIT TO DUNDEE When U.S. Grant paid a visit to my home town, They spruced it up with a lick of paint And then they showed him round, Two bands played in fierce competition As the rain came down, And the General said, "What a mighty long bridge to such a mighty little ole town." A man called Walsh hung from a window With the Starts and Stripes, And the orphan boys sang, "Alouette" It was sweetness and light, But as they sang the fire bell rang And they ran for their lives, "What well trained little orphans and a precious little song." Said the General's wife. A carriage was called to the Magdalen Green, Before the darkness fell, With a short stop over for the ladies convenience, At the Royal Hotel, And the General frowned through the last of the speeches Though he took it well, "What a pretty little bandstand, what lovely little steeple, What charming little houses and such cheerful little people, But what a mighty long bridge for such a mighty little ole town." - Michael Marra.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has deserved City of Culture status for a long time now. In our city we have so much in the way of arts and culture that celebrate our own local history as well as what Dundee has done for Scotland, the UK and the world. A lot of people have worked incredibly hard to get our city to where it is now and the recognition is rightfully deserved.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Spending 4 years with an eclectic group of students, from across the globe, engaged in learning, interaction and growing up. Formative experiences were the foundations for what we have subsequently become.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Came for 1 year stayed for 26years Dundee is a village really where you can: Run drum write skate scoot sail and hike. Or be mindfull, chant and breathe Or learn and be surprised Or explore and create something new Dundee doesnt limit.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The longest seaplane flight took off from Dundee in 1938 and flew non stop to South Africa. The river has been the vehicle of discovery not just out to sea but into the air as well. There is such a rich history in Dundee just waiting to be soaked up.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is full of wonderful musicians, people and their own humour. The redevelopment that is going on is so overdue and when finished will place Dundee well and truly on the map of culture where it so rightly belongs.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The "couthy-ness" of people here!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love Dundee my home I grew up its inspire me of education, historys, tourest attractions, museums friendly people and have everything for events all preformance and the pipe bands is my big thing and Broughty Ferry Gala week is great. radio 1 weekend in 2006, waterfront , Science, Jazz and Blues, Discovery ship, Jute Mill, Rep Theatre, lots of activity for the city of cuture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Camper down park
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city is full of the most engaging, entertaining and diverse people. Every time I leave my house, someone makes me smile!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My hidden gems of Dundee are the lovely green spaces in the most unlikely places all over the town. Parks and walks, such as Riverside and the Rock Garden in Broughty Ferry. My favourite Dundee people have to be the Park and Leisure Department! They do a wonderful job all year round. And what about our fireworks displays and the Christmas lights. So much to be proud of in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The annual Dundee Jazz &amp; Blues festival is an amazing experience that really brings the whole community together and creates a fantastic feeling in the city. It also highlights the cities passion for creativity and is attracting fans from all over the world.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city has a rich, diverse and vibrant arts scene and with its broad international population through the two universities, the pool of talented individuals adding to Dundee's culture keeps growing. The Blues Bonanza, Science Week and the University of Dundee's freshers week are some of my favorites!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a great place with interesting little pockets of history from the Howff graveyard to the Mcmanus gallery and surprising little art deco details of some forgotten old buildings. I like looking out for all the little bits of public sculpture as well - I think the penguins heading for Discovery are my favourite!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> location location location - the river provides some of the most sublime light to be found in a British city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> ....there's a fabulous zoo with lots of animals including bears, wolves, lemurs and Scottish wildcats. It's called Camperdown Wildlife Centre and, because it's run by Dundee City Council, the entry fee is really low
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am from Dundee myself but live in Norway. The thing I love about being Dundonian is that we are proud of where we come from despite often being the butt of jokes by people from other cities. When I got married in Dundee the Norwegians loved Dundee and Dundonians. There are many famous Dundonians that have contributed a lot to national and international culture. From astronomers to actors. One of my favourite places is the Mills Observatory. Hidden in the trees of Balgay, the observatory is a local gem.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee folk have the driest wit on the planet. Their quick humour requires a very thick skin. However this goes hand in hand with true kindness and community spirit. I love Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is not the city people think it is - it is much more: dynamic, cultured, historical, international and at the forefront of research in areas such as life sciences or digital art (including video games). And all of this, near one of the most beautiful countryside and riverside backdrop!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There"s a willingness to make things happen; people listen, consider and act and it feels as if the door is open. It's a city which aspires and inspires.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a visiting distance learning student, I thought the Dundee Backpackers Hostel was a hidden gem of the city's heritage. It is an unusual converted 16th-19th century building with layers of character and some interesting preserved objects on display. The city's rich culture is also represented by a vibrant and diverse art scene which adds to the enjoyment of being there.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Castle Street is definitely a hidden secret with its old book shop, cheesery, cake shop, vintage shop and the colorful youth center just at the corner it is just lovely. A place not to be missed for sure!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> its simplicity! Dundee is amazing, it offers warmth to strangers and absorbs them in its culture. Good luck Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The castle in Broughty Ferry. It houses a surprisingly strong collection of Scottish art - not what you'd expect from a pretty random tower by the beach!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I never been there but I will be.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's the fowk o' Dundee, abiddy that decides tae bide in the toon and a' the indigenous population are Dundonian we've been sharing Dundee wi' the rest o' the world for an affy lang time and it's fairly clear that this has made Dundee a very special place, baith international and colloquial ,ye see it a' at the fut o' reform street......spend half 'noor jist watchin'
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is full of surprises (for those who don't yet fully understand how wonderfully vibrant our wee city actually is!) There is a huge amount of creative and cultural activity happening all over the city... you just have to be dedicated to seeking it out! And if there's something in particular that you think should be happening in the city, whether that's a new club night or a new Japanese restaurant ;) ... then there is a strong network and a huge amount of energy and enthusiasm around to support new ideas and put them in to action!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has something for everyone! Its a collective of things that makes the city great. There are plenty parks, ponds and the beautiful 'Silvery Tay'. Its a convenient and enjoyable place for families, couples, students and anyone who gives it a try! Easy to commute to and from. Ninewells is a fantastic teaching Hospital that is often in the news with the latest in science and technology.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The music. There's a surprising variety. Open mic nights with some talented acoustic musicians, jazz and swing on the HMS unicorn, well known names playing gigs at the dog house or fat sam's and everything in-between. Whether you want a chilled out night, fancy some dancing or want to see your favourite band Dundee has it all.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The miniature bandstand on the Perth Road
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the fact you have all the amenities of a major city and yet you can drive about without the traffic stress of a big city such as an Edinburgh or a Glasgow. There aren't the same 'wacky races' or gunge ups here !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a vibrant and multi-cultured city. I love the areas around the west end of Dundee and the University. Beautiful gardens, quaint shops,lovely coffee shops, fantastic restaurants, theaters and exciting bars. Dundee is an ever changing city, every time I go back to visit there are improvements and something new. There are always fantastic events going on. It is also a city rich in history, displayed at wonderful museums and easy to spot in the streets. There really is something for everyone in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Discovery Film Festival. I get invited every year and I love going to see films from around the world. Last year the film I saw was in French but I thought it was brilliant. Ava (aged 6)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I think we have great potential to visitors and locals in that there are great closie tours of Victorian and medeaval histories. Stuart Walker does these tours and could speak for ages on the history of Dundee but we don't do enough of these tours and promote our own town. We could do more and shout about our town from the rooftops but tend to hide and don't push ourselves enough. Dundee folk don't shout about their town and what it has, like the Macmanus Galleries, The Unicorn, The Discovery. Up wi the bonnets of Bonnie Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When Dundee chose to bid for Uk City of Culture 2017 nobody held it up for ridicule! We have believed in our city's qualities for a long time and the outside world is beginning to agree.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How wonderfully friendly the people are and how good the university is!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love Dundee's green spaces! It is a small place with lots of country parks. I love being in a bustling city but with the choice of seeking a quiet spot, surrounded by nature if I wish.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundonians are immensely proud of their city and the know how to celebrate its achievements. When Dundee United clinched the Premier League title back in '83 by beating their local rivals, Dundee FC, it was no surprise that both sets of fans celebrated into the small hours. In what other city would this have happenned?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's that Dundee isn't better known for the wonderful place that it is. Outsiders dwell on the negatives about the city but the reality is that that we are a small city with a thriving creative and artistic scene coupled with a surprising smattering of the high tech. And I love that our most famous statues are of cartoon characters!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have an amazing memory of my grandparents house, Pitkerro House. It was the most amazing place when I was little. Every corner of the property was like being in wonderland and my grandparents where both amazing fun to be around. I only found out that my Grandad had bought and renovated the property after he passed away, but it amazed me how much love he had for the place and how it always buzzed when the whole family spent time together there. I miss those days.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I moved from a tiny town to dundee. A city my friends referred to as "scumdee" but to me it's now home. Every morning I look out my window and I can see the Tay, trees blooming in spring &amp; rarely but beautifully the sun shining. I love dundee and I love how it surprised me by comparing to my home town of Thurso.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How many interesting and creative people come from Dundee... Not least of all my husband and actor Forbes KB !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The warmth, the colour of the stone, the glimpses to the sea, the irish influence, the wynds, the theatre experience like your extended family's front room at the Rep, the great and obscure films, comfy seats at the DCA &amp; the vibe in the cafe/bar outside, the memory of Michael Marra everywhere, the bridges, the hope of seeing dolphins, the criss-cross bustle of the Ferry, the friendliest hairdresser ever, the cheek, the possibilities, the Discovery, the jute mills, the wide boys, green surprises like Baxter Park, the end of eyesores like Tayside House, the refurb of the Tay Hotel and the best cycle route across any bridge anywhere.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a city that continues to grow and develop with the times. Dundee has an ineresting history from whaling, the famous three J's - Jute, Jam and Journalism to developing the gaming industry, art, music, writting, science, drama, dance and sport. We also have the exciting prospect of the V&amp;A development which will bring with it more job opportunites and strengthen the industry and culture. There is something for everyone in Dundee - McManus Galleries and museum, the law hill and its panoramic views of the city, the Mills Observatory, Broughty Ferry beach (and the famous Visocchi's for homemade icecream), The Rep, Verdant Works, Sensation, The DCA, Magdalen Green and the bandstand - the list can go on and on. The general atmosphere and friendliness of the people in Dundee is something that is always a pleasant surprise
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazing music scene with good venues for live music! We also have some amazing musicians, bands and artists! I am super proud to be a Dundonian.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is Scotland's sunniest city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I adore lochee library. Beautiful building and a great atmosphere .
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> River Tay is amazing on any day with its many facets. Dark and gloomy, foggy and mysterious, bright and sunny, and the occasional seals. The research ongoing in University of Dundee and Ninewells Hospital aiso punches above its weight internationally.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amazing location of the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Cannae beat a proper Dundonian cultural experience in the twa Clarkys- starting with Clarks live music bar on Lindsay Street for the most bangin' new folky vibes you'll find in Scotland and a few pints with the local belters. Best followed in the early hours by a peh wi a panini fae Clarkys 24 hour bakery (Scotland's finest 24 hour eatery). Glorious
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Saturday lecture series at Dundee University is a fantastic venture which more people should be aware of. Snapshots of diverse and intriguing subjects for a wide-ranging audience
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the ability to change, to look at itself and learn from the past, to grow, to thrive and to change.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Pulling off yet another Dundee Womens festival, most probably the largest and most varied women's festival in the UK, by harnessing the strengths, talents, enthusiasm, creativity and generosity of the community, that is Dundee. Celebrating women's culture, women's stories, women's wisdom, women's identities and women's lives.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a teenager Dundee Contemporary Arts was my first experience of seeing a contemporary art exhibition. I still remember first setting foot in the wonderful galleries and how intrigued I was. A few years later I was excepted into art college. I vividly remember nattering on about several of DCA's exhibitions in my interview. A few years later I was lucky enough to work at DCA. From here I discovered an organisation always striving to bring the best of the visual arts to the city while continuing to welcome as diverse an audience as possible. Every year it introduces many more young people to the possibilities of the visual arts through its excellent education, cinema and gallery programmes. DCA is there for you from the beginning. Its brilliant.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a fabulous and unique history! Shipbuilding, whaling, the mills, the print works, the. Soft fruit and jams! But those days are gone! What isn't gone is the fighting spirit and the desire to make Dundee great again and that's something we need to embrace and support!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the amazing speed at which it has developed into a cool city i.e. over the last 18 years since i went there to university
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> right opposite the DUSA students union exist - down the little road to look out over the water. There is a little bench with te most amazing views out over the tay. I found out on my garduation day that as we past my grandad proposed to my gran there - a very special place and one of my Dundee Uni memories!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's a hoora place
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Every time I come back to Dundee I don't feel at home until I have walked beside the river. It is a simple walk but the view is constantly changing. This magnificent bit of water can comfort, excite and rejuvenate. Whenever I show someone around Dundee I do the same walk down to the river. Time and again visitors comment not only on the view but how surprised they are at how everyone we pass smiles and says hello as we walk along. It is surprising how the common connection with the Tay connects its admirers and how, at other times when there is no one, there can be such quiet open space and wide horizons so close to a busy city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> History, warmth, calm and nice
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Rich industrial history with women working in the mills and their male folk staying at home boiling kettles and looking after the bairns
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The wealth of artisitic talent we have in this City is truly amazing! The Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design Degree Show is a cultural highlight during the summer months. If you haven't been before - GO THIS YEAR!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a fabulous city in the most stunning location in Europe. That's no surprise to those of us who have grown up here and still live here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's biggest asset is the people who live there - there are an overwhelming number of people who care about its future and its potential. It's also the most beautifully sited city in the UK - the Tay never fails to impress!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is not only a place of wonder, but is also the city of discovery!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Scotland’s Jute Museum @ Verdant Works A fantastic look back in time to the height of the Industrial Revolution and the social and economic impact that the Jute industry had on Dundee (Jutopolis). A historical commentary on the social issues that affected Dundee at the time.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I studied Fine Art at DJCA and my experience there, the aspiration and belief it had, and that living in the city provided, all instilled aspiration in me beyond measure. The dynamics of being a student in the city was way beyond the comparative scale of the city, the environment was rich in enquiry and expertise, pride in the city was palpable and the attitude positive and open towards everyone. I miss the obvious 'cultural highlights' but I miss the warmth of the people and old Dens Rd Market.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city seems to surprise other Scots who visit our city , who did not realise what a beautiful city we have. The location next to the river tay is very special.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everytime I look for help for a project within the creative community, be it volunteers or advice/expertise, I always receive support. The people's justified optimism and community spirit make me super proud to have made Dundee my home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Amazing ancient archaeology under our feet, just waiting to be discovered: the medieval burial grounds under the Auld Steeple; the mystery of the Bronze Age Balgarthno Stone Circle, and the McManus Galleries with their unique collection of Pictish monuments inspiring us to gaze into the past and wonder who? what? and why?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am constantly surprised by the city's cultural camaraderie. A visitor is as likely to see an impromptu street performance by a Lochee bard from the "schemes" as they are a zydeko gig put on by Perth Road students. Everything is accepted and there is no snobbery, only curiosity!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> In Novemeber, I was involved in, and attended the launch of Hayley Scanlan's first fashion collection. The event was at the McManus Galleries. To see someone from here moving up and gradually becoming a global name in the world of fashion is great for Dundee. It shows the creative side of our city, which may be (unfairly) overshadowed by other which are more normally associated with the arts and creative industries. I.e. Glasgow and Edinburgh in Scotland and the usual ones south of the border.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Watching the wonderfully wild sea life from the waterfront area, birds, seals and even dolphins. Breathing the fresh sea air and observing the weather rolling in.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The real surprise is why Dundonians don't shout about the place more loudly. For it's size Dundee punches well above it's weight and the people are disarmingly modest about it. .
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount and variety of bars the city has to offer
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Howff - a graveyard in the centre of town where you can relax &amp; chill.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee West is a cultural festival led by the community. It has developed from a standing start into an extremely successful and community engaging festival in a very short time through the dedication of members of the community.

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