:: We Dundee

We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

2791

PEOPLE AND GROWING

Being a past student of UoD, I can honestly say I would have rather gone nowhere else. The best student union in the UK and a strong student culture that is really celebrated by the entire city. Dundee is a city with the best parts of a busy city and a friendly town, the community really gets together and is united through love of their hometown.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is best viewed from the top of a bus. The rooftops are amazing. Then climb to the top of the Law for wonderful views and aching legs. Approaching Dundee from any side makes you feel as though you are coming home.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The friendly people and all the talks at the science museum there seems to something going on every day!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The annual Dundee Jazz & 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> City of youth and ambition

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Even if Dundee is not a big city, there are a lot of cultural events going on! Just come and discover Dundee - The city of Discovery!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people, the history and the resiliance of the city.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I used to travel through Dundee on my way to and from Uni in Aberdeen. I always thought it was a grey gloomy city of roundabouts. Now that I live here, I couldn't have been more wrong! My favourite places have to be the Botanic Gardens and Camperdown Park, and my absolute favourite thing is the ever-changing view of the River Tay - stunning In all weathers!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the architecture and the waterfront

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> so many wonderful things about a city always looking towards the future of discovery. whether its art (v&a), music (rustyhipcollective) or science (research centre) dundee has it all!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have worked in Dundee for the last 17 years and in that time it never ceases to amaze me how much it has really flourished creatively to being the innovative and forward thinking city that it is today.

A great deal of commitment, effort and time has been given by the people and employers within the city to create this vibrancy and it certainly deserves to be credited as a City of Culture.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The site where Mary Shelley stayed, our public observatory (only two in the UK), our incredible views over the Tay from the Law Hill, our parks, our beach, our football teams.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beauty of the Shed at Tannadice is really something to behold.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> From my time studying here, I have found that their are lots of friendly people. Chilling at the law hill with the amazing views. Wondering round an exhibition at DCA/McManus.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an annual event, held during March to coincide with International Women's Day. This is a very diverse festival with a wide variety of events held all across the city - culture, sport, leisure and celebrating Dundee's women. There is sure to be something to appeal to you.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee university enriches life thru llunchtime concerts and free Saturday eve lectures with wide ranging speakers. All free. Mcmanus galleries featuring exhibits from V and A. Broughty Ferry Art society classes. DCA featuring National Theatre and opera from the Met.

<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> The view of the Tay, with the rail bridge and beyond. Every day it's different and every day it is beautiful!

It will comfort and uplift you.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is an ever-changing city - re-inventing herself and surprising visitors from both home and abroad.

A totally hidden secret is part of the Castle Walls in the basement of an office in Castle Street, Dundee where I used to work.

McManus Art Gallery and Museum is not only an amazing building but filled with History, Art and Artefacts - a total treasure in the middle of the city centre.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Scotland's only Frank Gehry building is in Dundee (Maggie's Centre at Ninewells). Dundee should be looking to commission more as they are attractions in themselves !

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is simply a stunning place to live, with incredible views and access to nature and wilderness on your doorstep, but all the history and vibrancy of an ancient and thriving city. The people are warm and canny with an eye always open for progress they can believe in.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm always surprised by the fantastic range of shops and galleries in the west end/perth road area selling local handcrafted items, many of which have been made or designed by current and former duncan of jordanstone students. Many of these places are very unassuming, however have been there for years- proving how much the local residents value the creations on sale. The lindeen gallery in particular is a highlight.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Every time I cycle into Dundee from Fife I get this feeling... THE BUZZ... When I first visited Dundee in 2007, I couldn't feel the buzz. I now go for regular day trips to return home feeling inspired and creative from the real & lively encounters of the day. Nothing fake about Dundee!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has many beautiful and interesting places including the DCA centre, Rep theatre and the Law, but above all I love the city for the people I met there and enjoyed all these places with.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Im always proud to say Im from Dundee and it almost always gets a positive reaction when meeting new people and if it doesnt its really easy to get people to think again about their views when sharing some facts about our history, music, culture, football team (DUFC) etc etc

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I told people I was moving to dundee everyone back home was under the impression that it was a nasty city - dirty and full of trouble.
I've lived here 2 years now and loved every second.
This bid could help change people's opinions and could help show them all that dundee has to offer.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What we like best about Dundee:

Me, my wife and two boys simply love the Grassy Beach Walk from Stannergate to Broughty Ferry. The walk coupled with the views of the sun glistening off the River Tay are simply breathtaking.

Ample reward is to be had at the end of the long pleasant walk with a cold drink or two (alfresco I might add) at the all too inviting Ship Inn by the side of the river.

Where else in the UK can you spot dolphins bobbing in and out of the Silvery Tay and also catch a glimpse of Bob Servant's extension!

Now thats what I call a family walk on a Sunday!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> World-class music events like the Jazz Festival where I saw the Esbjorn Svensson Trio, by far one of the best concerts of my life.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is a very historic place with many nooks and crannies to be sought out.
Great walks - I particularly like the walks around the old streets down to Magdalen Green and back into the City centre on a good day.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Having never stepped foot in the city until my first day at University I had no idea what to expect, but the friendliness and welcoming attitude got me straight away, 11 years later I feel like Dundee is home, and I am very excited about what my future holds living in this ever developing city. The open spaces in Dundee are great, you never feel enclosed. With such easy access to beautiful countryside, beaches, hills and forests, why would you need to live anywhere else?

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> 1) Old train tunnel through Law hill- could reopen as exhibit
2) River cruises- Tay is beautiful. Could get more like Taymara.
3) Mills Observatory- only free public one in UK & great fun at nights
4) James Chalmers- inventor of stamps. Could have international philately expo
5) James Bowman Lindsay- first inventor of lightbulb. Could have huge illuminated lightbulb sculpture or combine with-
6) Could have UK's first "Bellagio" style water fountain combining movement and classical music.
7) Jimmy Shand- lived in Dundee and bought his first accordian there. Could have National Accordian Championship like Glasgow's successful Piping Championships.
For more ideas- email me!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beaches are stunning and a city with such genuine and friendly people.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> having lived in the city off and on for sixty years, the Dundee of today is evolving into a modern 21st century city. Twenty years ago, that seemed unbelievable....

<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> it's ability to host cultural events at select locations. its rich young artists community, headed by the young artists themelves.
the scottish dance theatre and rep productions. the fact its under the radar for many outside scotland

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> From the first time I visited Dundee (2010) it felt it had something magical about it. I have lived there since 2010 and it still does have that magic. It still manages to surprise me every time I go for a walk along the riverside. I am a Fine Art student at DJCAD and i can proudly say that student life is great and I love the university of Dundee. I have taken a couple of images that have managed to portray its beauty and at the same time some of its history.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I like that Dundee has culture without pretentiousness;
that we have bands who play big festivals but still play in local pubs, and world class classical musicians playing in community centres and day centres for older people; and that I can be entertained on the way home from seeing Scottish Dance Theatre by a homeless guy dancing joyfully in the aisle of the bus while his mate plays a mouth organ.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love that Dundee is striving to improve and has so much to offer from Football at Junior & Senior level,the Science Centre, Art at McManus & DCA and a brilliant rep theatre. We're on the river, near beautiful beaches and countryside and a thriving city! Beautiful buildings in The Caird Hall, Morgan Academy, McManus Gallery & Custom House

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Nobody crowds you here, but nobody goes it alone.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The incredible generosity of spirit in the people. Unseen at first, but just waiting to be uncovered.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Magdalen Green Bandstand on a bright morning standing majestically looking out over the Tay - surely one of the most picturesque views in Scotland...

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee and Dundee United being in the same street.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is so much history to be proud of, and so many positives to look forward to. I love the views across the River Tay, the ability to see the whole City from The Law and the abundance of green space The vast changes that have taken place in the past 100 years from the 3 J's to manufacturing to biomedical and gaming hub is astounding! Dundee is just big enough to keep you excited, but small enough to retain a sense of community and you 'cannae walk aboot toon withoot bumpin intae somebody ye ken!'

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I was born and raised in Dundee before moving abroad where I have lived for the past 28 years. It never ceases to amaze me how many lovely memories I have of the city and I have tried to pass these on to my children, one of whom is currently living there. Everywhere you go tells a story, be it the West End or the East End. As youngsters we went everywhere, Balgay Park, Baxter Park, Camperdown Park, Caird Park for the school sports and the cultural events were numerous!! I wish Dundee all the best in their bid. It's a city that never stops trying!!! My Bonnie Dundee!!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> - Braithwaite's tea and coffee shop in Castle St
- Summer Sunday free brass band concert at Magdalen Green followed by drinks and food from one or more of the many bars and restaurants on Perth Rd
- The brilliant Dundee Blues Bonanza .... It introduced Home Bargains and the TJ Morris Company to the city!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The whole city never fails to amaze you with its scenic views and great atmosphere, as well as the wonderful University (Dundee)

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My parents were both Dundee doctors. My father was John Langlands who had a practice at Garland Place. He was a very much loved Dundee GP who used to visit his patients nearly every day of the year, even Christmas Day!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> If you open the door into libraries, you will find creative writing sessions for children, adults and young people, manga sessions, video games workshops for young creatives to develop their own games, as well as regular author events.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's music scene is different! I can't quite put my finger on it, but there's a lot of diverse musical activity in Dundee relative to its population size. For anyone interested in music and people, it elevates Dundee beyond its fabulous natural location. Maybe it's the geographical setting that inspires people so much. The air here is also good!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The parks and the people:

Inspiring.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I loved Dundee ever since my girlfriend went there for Uni.
I love the city people are lovely and I love a good walk along the Tay.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I moved here in the mid 80's to study and didn't leave! Dundee is such a beautiful and vibrant city. I love it's distinctive language, history, architecture, amazing music scene and close proximity to the sea, to name but a few. Most of all though, I love the people. Dundee is full of friendly, creative and very talented people and in my opinion the perfect choice for UK City of Culture 2017.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Roseangle gallery, art exhibitions at the Botanic gardens,the paintings in the new gallery on South Tay street, the beautiful jewellery at the DCA shop...the list goes on.So much talent and so much creativity in his town.As an outsider who emigrated toDundee from India in 2001,I have watched the city reinvent itself culturally.I love Dundee and I hope to never leave.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The famous Nine Trades of Dundee --nine groups keeping alive 500 years of tradition and culture through the ancient guilds which made Dundee thrive --from medieval times. A great legacy.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Beach, parks, forests, mountains within a half hour, brilliant scenes going on all the time. Just bra.

See All Backers