West Lothian art group half century celebrations are picture perfect

Provost Tom Kerr hosted a civic reception for Livingston Art Association (LAA) in the town's premier arts venue, Howden Park Centre, recently.
Members of the group joined with invited guests including Depute Provost Cathy Muldoon, Leader of West Lothian Council Lawrence Fitzpatrick and council officers to mark the milestone. 
After the Provost welcomed everyone to the meeting, LAA president Chris Gorman gave a brief history of the association which started in 1970. The anniversary celebrations were postponed in 2020 due to the covid-19 pandemic.
Provost Kerr presented LAA with a special plaque to mark their half century, with LAA returning the gift by presenting the council with a painting by their tutor, local artist Elaine Russell.
LAA member Sam Bahia then gave a surprise gift to the council of a beautiful picture of local landmark, Linlithgow Palace, before Executive councillor for culture and leisure Andrew McGuire delivered a vote of thanks to everyone.
The hall at Howden Park Centre was laid out with some of the excellent art produced by LAA members, much of which was seen by the public during a very successful exhibition in an empty shop in Livingston Designer Outlet recently. 
Provost Tom Kerr said: "It was a real delight to belatedly celebrate Livingston Art Association's 50th anniversary with a civic reception.
"The talented group contribute a huge amount to the Livingston community, and the standard of many of their works is incredibly high.
"On behalf of the council, I would like to thank the association and Sam Bahia in particular for their generous gifts of fabulous artworks."
For more information on LAA, please visit Livingston Art Association website (opens new window).