An international project has been awarded funding for collaborative work between artists in Scotland and Canada.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced the £80,000 award towards Festival Expo during her tour of North America.

The support comes from the Scottish Government through Creative Scotland.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Scotland has a long history of storytelling and it is a large and significant part of our heritage. It is a history that is alive and well today.

“This funding will spark a fascinating exchange of Scottish and Canadian cultural heritage, including a celebration of our indigenous languages, and I look forward to seeing the creative links between Scotland and Canada continue to flourish.”

The 2019 Scottish International Storytelling Festival will have a special focus on Canada, showcasing new creative work developed by Scottish and Canadian artists.

Canada – Scotland: Coast To Coast will also include a cultural exchange on indigenous languages.

Donald Smith, director of the festival, said: “Canadian guests will perform in Edinburgh and travel across Scotland, pioneering the importance of storytelling to build inter-cultural bridges and showcasing story, dance and song.”