Jupiter Artland founder is new Creative Scotland chair

Arts funding body Creative Scotland has appointed businessman Robert Wilson as the new chair of its board.

Wilson is the co-founder of contemporary sculpture parkland facility Jupiter Artland, which borders Edinburgh.

The previous chair Richard Findlay died last year and the post has been held on an interim basis by Ben Thomson since.

Creative Scotland has been under severe criticism from the industry since it announced this year's round of three-year core funding, which saw some high profile projects and companies lose thier funding. 

The body has since reinstated the funding for five companies, including theatre companies for disabled actors and children.

Two board members quit during the row.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said Wilson will bring a "wide range of leadership experience in the commercial, philanthropic and charitable sectors, with particular experience of the arts, including festivals and the visual arts."

"I welcome the leadership that he will bring to Creative Scotland in taking forward their future strategy and supporting Scotland's vibrant creative sectors."

Wilson said: "I look forward to working with my fellow colleagues from across all aspects of the sector to celebrate and champion the vibrant cultural scene that belongs to Scotland."