Art Galleries of Scotland
We had a great opportunity to help promote the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh on Princes Street, just down from the Royal Mile.
The building is an iconic feature of this great city and was designed by William Henry Playfair in the neoclassical style and opened to the public back in 1859.
We have been commissioned for many projects over years including the Rembrandt Exhibition, where we made beautiful new graphics to help promote the event, including covering the steps in a special foil suitable for use on stone.
Processions 2018
The National Galleries of Scotland joined the celebrations for Processions 2018 with the Royal Scottish Academy Building pillars wrapped in #suffragette colours of the mass participation artwork created in Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh and London to celebrate 100 years of women voting!
The Scottish National Gallery: A Cultural Treasure in Edinburgh
The Scottish National Gallery, located in the heart of Edinburgh on The Mound, is one of Scotland’s most important cultural institutions. Housing an exceptional collection of fine art, the gallery offers visitors the chance to explore masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 20th century, showcasing works from renowned artists like Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Turner, and Scotland’s own celebrated painters such as Sir Henry Raeburn and William McTaggart. With its rich history and impressive collection, the Scottish National Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
History and Architecture
The Scottish National Gallery first opened its doors in 1859 and is housed in a stunning neoclassical building designed by the renowned Scottish architect William Henry Playfair. Located in Edinburgh’s city centre, the gallery is set against the backdrop of the picturesque Princes Street Gardens, with Edinburgh Castle standing proudly in the distance. The building’s grand columns, symmetrical design, and elegant interiors reflect the 19th-century ideals of beauty and proportion, making it a fitting home for the priceless works of art it contains.
Over the years, the gallery has undergone various expansions and renovations to accommodate its growing collection. Most recently, significant efforts have been made to modernise the space, creating more gallery rooms and improving visitor facilities while preserving the historical essence of the building.
World-Class Art Collection
The Scottish National Gallery’s collection spans several centuries and includes works by some of the greatest names in Western art history. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and works on paper, each representing different artistic movements and styles.
Some of the most notable pieces in the gallery’s collection include:
- “The Monarch of the Glen” by Sir Edwin Landseer: This iconic painting of a majestic red deer stag has become one of the most recognisable symbols of the Scottish Highlands.
- “The Three Ages of Man” by Titian: This masterpiece by the Italian Renaissance artist is a remarkable exploration of life’s different stages and emotions.
- Works by the Scottish Colourists: The gallery is home to works by influential Scottish artists such as Samuel Peploe, Francis Cadell, and John Duncan Fergusson, who were known for their bold use of colour and light.
- “Old Woman Reading” by Rembrandt: An exquisite example of Rembrandt’s ability to convey deep human emotion through his mastery of light and shadow.
The gallery’s Scottish collection is also a highlight, featuring works from key figures in Scottish art history, such as Sir Henry Raeburn’s portraits of the Scottish elite and William McTaggart’s evocative Scottish landscapes.
Visitor Experience and Exhibitions
The Scottish National Gallery is not only a place to admire great art but also a hub of cultural activity. The gallery offers free entry, making it accessible to everyone, with guided tours, educational programs, and interactive displays available to enrich the visitor experience. Temporary exhibitions, often focusing on particular artists, movements, or themes, provide fresh perspectives and bring in new audiences.
For those seeking a break, the gallery has a café where visitors can relax and enjoy views of Princes Street Gardens, as well as a shop offering art books, prints, and unique souvenirs.
A Cultural Landmark in Edinburgh
The Scottish National Gallery stands as a testament to the country’s rich artistic heritage and commitment to preserving and sharing culture with the public. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the gallery offers a fascinating journey through some of the most important works of art in history, all set within the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh’s historic landscape. A visit to the Scottish National Gallery is an opportunity to engage with art, history, and beauty in a space that celebrates both global and Scottish culture.