ART is being used to help transform a community being developed in Glasgow.

YAKA, a group of top art graduates, is displaying work as part of one of the largest artist-led commissions of public artwork in the city.

Some 30 artists, including a number who lost works in the recent fire at Glasgow School Of Art, are taking part in the So It Is exhibition.

Their creations will be shown until November 29 at four venues: The Briggait; Laurieston Arches; Laurieston Arena; and Caledonia Road Church. Work includes dramatic sculptural installations, performances and interactive workshops.

City-based artist Peter McCaughey was appointed last year to lead a five-year strategy called Art & Living: Laurieston.

He said: "Laurieston has seen unprecedented change over the last 20 years.

"Our approach in developing the art strategy for the area has been to try and unearth the hidden potential in the under-used places and stalled spaces throughout.

"The So It Is exhibition is a fantastic demonstration of the potential these venues have as creative spaces and of the artistic talent in our city."

Urban Union, the developer involved in the £100 million regeneration of Laurieston, appointed Mr McCaughey to the role.

Janice Russell, director at Urban Union, added: "We want a new community in this part of Glasgow and art plays a key role in creating places and bringing that vision to life.

"Peter's understanding of the area, its rich history and of how art can transform a community, continues to bring fresh approaches to the continuing development of Laurieston."

Laurieston is one of eight Transformational Regeneration Area projects in Glasgow.

The partnership was established as a strategic partnership to oversee the delivery of a regeneration and development programme across Glasgow's eight identified Transformational Regeneration Areas (TRA).

The programme aims to provide new sustainable mixed tenure communities through the provision of new housing, community facilities, green space and where appropriate commercial units.

Each active TRA has its own local delivery group, with resident and community representation. The initiative will deliver a major boost for the city, creating jobs and a wide range of new homes and community facilities.

The other seven TRAs in the programme are Maryhill; Gallow­gate; Shawbridge; Sighthill; North Toryglen; East Govan & Ibrox; and Red Road/Barmulloch.

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk