Why art works for us at the Folkestone Triennial

http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2015/apr/20/art-works-folkestone-triennial

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Your article (Why the digging has never stopped in England’s gold-rush town, April 17) focused on only one out of 21 artworks the Folkestone Triennial commissioned for the town last summer. Your interpretation of the work is not one shared by many of the hundreds of people who enjoyed getting involved in a good old-fashioned seaside treasure hunt. In your eagerness to tell a story of deprivation and unemployment you failed to mention that the Triennial has created 27 permanent artworks for the town by local, national and international artists.

Last summer one of the permanent art works, Payers Park, regenerated a central area of derelict land creating a new landscaped park and play area. Folkestone Triennial 2014 was visited by more than 135,000 people, many of whom spent money when they came, and it brought enjoyment as well as opportunities for employment, learning and participation.We don’t believe that art can solve people’s problems but it is clear that the Triennial has made a positive difference – and though economic challenges persist, it plays an important role in bringing attention, drawing visitors and attracting people to live and work here.Alastair UptonChief executive, Creative Foundation, Folkestone