As the United States prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, students from Heriot-Watt University have been offered an historic opportunity to create a contribution from Scotland. They’re at the heart of a unique project to design the commemorative America-250th tartan, which will be presented in Washington D.C. this summer.
Heriot-Watt University was invited by the Scottish Government USA to create a tartan symbolising the enduring historical and cultural ties between Scotland and the United States. Students from the University’s School of Textiles and Design have presented their ideas to a panel of experts from both countries, who have selected the winning design. The chosen tartan will be revealed in the summer.
Professor Fiona Grant, Executive Dean of the School of Textiles and Design, said: “We were delighted to be chosen for this special assignment to mark the America250 celebrations. It’s a remarkable opportunity to contribute to a project of real cultural – and lasting – importance, while showcasing the breadth of skill, creativity and innovation that define Heriot-Watt’s School of Textiles and Design.”
The long and historic ties between the United States and Scotland
The initiative gives international exposure to Scotland’s emerging textile designers, linking their work to a globally recognised commemoration. It also provides an opportunity for Scottish Government USA to promote Scotland’s strengths in creativity, heritage, higher education and design to audiences across the United States. Mark Boyce, Acting Head, Scottish Government USA said, “The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is a moment to reflect on the long and historic ties between the United States and Scotland. A commemorative tartan is the perfect symbol of this interwoven relationship that continues to thrive through trade, education, culture and diaspora. We are delighted to bring this opportunity to the students at Heriot-Watt University, who are developing skills and creativity to help secure the future of Scotland’s unique tartans and textiles.”
The chosen design will be registered with the Scottish Tartan Authority as the official commemorative tartan for the America-250th organisation. An initial commemorative run will be produced at Lovat Mill in the Scottish Borders, with the winning student then travelling to Washington D.C. to formally present the tartan from Scotland to the USA. Each submission had to meet specific evaluation criteria. These include the historical and cultural relevance of the tartan design, the creativity and originality of the pattern and supporting narrative, as well as the design’s public appeal and potential for ceremonial and commercial use. Colour palette, warp and weft all contribute to the narrative conveyed, combining tradition with contemporary storytelling.
The tartan project is part of a wider programme of activity around America-250th and the America-Scotland relationship. Scotland has played a part in shaping America’s history, with many of the Founding Fathers and signatories of the Declaration of Independence of Scottish descent. Scottish immigrants also contributed to the development of American governance, industry and education. Lovat Mill in Hawick is an established partner of Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design. It regularly provides placements for fourth year weave students and hosts tours of the mill for students from the school.
Do you enjoy our content?
Content on the Scottish Banner website remains free for users. Stories and events listed for the international Scottish community continue to be an important resource for many across the world. As advertising revenue remains a challenge, our readers can donate to help us produce unique Scottish content for global Scots. Every contribution counts and thank you for considering your support.
Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication and website visit: The Scottish Banner