A champion of arts and culture, Kresanna Aigner, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for her contributions to the arts in Moray. This recognition comes nearly 14 years after she founded Findhorn Bay Arts and is part of the New Year’s Honours List for 2024. Aigner expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honoured. It reflects not just my own work, but the dedication, creativity and belief of the artists, colleagues, volunteers, partners and communities who have shaped Findhorn Bay Arts.”
Aigner’s journey in the arts began in her childhood. Her family relocated to Moray when she was just 10, starting with her aunt and uncle, who settled in Findhorn. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of the Moray Firth, Aigner’s passion for creativity was ignited during her teenage years. She attributes her inspiration to her drama teacher, Anne Duncan, at Forres Academy, and her involvement in a local drama group.
In 1989, she moved to Edinburgh to pursue studies in Drama and Community Arts at Telford College. By 1993, she had already made her mark by programming and producing her first showcase, ‘Artistic Upstarts’, at the Gilded Balloon Theatre, featuring over 30 performances in one night. Over her 34-year career, Aigner has held various positions across the British arts sector, including coordinating the Edinburgh touring circuit and working with prominent festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe and Celtic Connections.
A significant chapter in Aigner’s career unfolded in Belfast, where she contributed to the arts scene after moving there in 1999. Notably, she was instrumental in developing audience engagement strategies and served as the event manager for the inaugural Culture Night Belfast, which showcased over 100 arts and cultural organizations and attracted more than 25,000 attendees. Her work included managing tours for renowned Scottish folk musicians and hosting a radio show dedicated to Scottish and Irish music.
In 2010, Aigner returned to Moray with her husband, James, and their twins, Jacob and Taylor. “It was time to come home,” she reflected, emphasizing her desire to contribute her experiences and creativity to the community that had shaped her. In 2012, she founded Findhorn Bay Arts, where she currently leads the creative vision and strategic direction.
The organization is renowned for its biennial Findhorn Bay Festival, as well as ongoing creative projects that enhance cultural engagement in Moray. Aigner’s efforts have garnered recognition, including the 20th Anniversary SURF Award for “Best Practice in Community Regeneration through Creative Regeneration” in 2018.
As a testament to her family legacy in Moray, Aigner reflected, “My parents would have been immensely proud of my MBE in recognition of my contribution to arts and culture.” Her aunt, Sheila Underwood, also received an MBE for her community contributions, further underscoring the family’s commitment to public service.
Kresanna Aigner’s MBE is not only a personal achievement but also a celebration of the collaborative spirit that drives the arts community in Moray. Her journey illustrates the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have in fostering cultural opportunities, connecting people, and enriching communities through the arts.
