Scottish education secretary Mike Russell hosted a meeting of university and college leaders at Hospitalfield House in Arbroath.
Principals or high-level management figures from throughout Scotland were invited to the historic arts residential centre to consider the scope for collaboration within the sector.
Around 20 guests attended the event, including representatives from Angus College in Arbroath, both Dundee universities and Adam Smith College in Kirkcaldy.
Michael Russell said, “I am keenly aware of the expertise and reputation in all aspects of the arts which are held by universities and colleges.
“In the current economic circumstances we have a responsibility to collaborate in exploiting all opportunities which exist for co-operation between the education and third sectors.”
The Hospitalfield Trust was set up after the death of Patrick Allan-Fraser 120 years ago and was, in effect, Scotland’s first fine art college.
In the 20th century, many notable painters and artists from Scotland and across the world spent time there.
Over the past 20 years the building has been restored and maintained by its sole employee, director Willie Payne, and his team of volunteers.
With the help of Creative Scotland, the trust set up an arts programme advisory group to suggest new ventures and activities.
Last night was an opportunity for education chiefs to discuss partnerships and explore collaboration opportunities with artistic communities.
Hospitalfield can be a study venue for all creative disciplines, including subjects like history, creative writing and conservation.
It can host seminars, conferences and away days and offers a corporate membership package.
Ken Cargill, chairman of the Hospitalfield Trust, said, “Over recent years Hospitalfield has sometimes dipped below the radar of mainstream higher education institutions.
“Now is an ideal time to reintroduce them to the rich resources of Hospitalfield, its current activities, its history, its art collection, its architecture and the extraordinary story of the pioneering, and visionary, Scot who founded the trust.
“We want today’s aspiring artists, in all disciplines, to experience what we have to offer.”