Cumbernauld’s newest and possibly most famous resident, Arria, has had a problem.  She has only been visible during the day - and that just wouldn't do.  Now, thanks to lighting supplied and programmed by ElektoLED which is installed the lady herself, she will be gloriously visible in the night time too.

 

 

 

 

The 10 meter high sculpture by renowned international artist Andy Scott was put in place this August to enhance the image of the Scottish New Town.  Yet, although available to perform her task twenty four hours a day she was hampered by one thing, the night.  And this lady demands a constant audience.  However, all that has now changed.

 

 

 

 

 

Now, a LED lighting rig, supplied by ElektoLED Ltd, has been placed inside the sculpture, set to a cycle which repeats every 48 minutes.   As the show progresses, Arria can be seen in a variety of different colours.  The light seeping through her metallic structure reflects against her various segments matching her daytime resplendance with a nightime ethereality .  The textures of the design are now highlighted in the evening in a way which cannot be done in daylight hours.

 

 

This special task was Designed by the Lightfolio company.  Based in Midlothian, the firm has previously lit up a number of Scott’s sculptures and were the obvious choice because of both their relationship with the sculptor and their own Scottish locality.

 

 

 

 

Installation was carried out by E.T.I Scotland Ltd. with on site programming of the ElektoLED Hi Power LED luminaires carried out by ElektoLED's Technicians.

For Arria, who even has a Facebook page this means even more attention from the international press, not to mention the local community which has quickly taken the sculpture to its heart. 

 

Arria, who stands taller than a double decker bus with another double decker on top of it is part of the Cumbernauld Positive Image Project.  It is the brainchild of Campsies Centre Cumbernauld Ltd (CCCL) – which facilitates the redevelopment of the municipality. 

 

 

 

 

In her new nocturnal attire, Arria is something quite gorgeous and it sets her off against the windswept Scottish countryside beautifully.  With her distinctly retro look and diva attitude she both beckons, welcomes and (in true iconic sixties style) receives adoration from her audience while equally clasping it to her.  As such she is a great metaphor for Cumbernauld’s attitude to visitors who come to the New Town for pleasure and business alike.