A new exhibition is to celebrate 40 years of Scotland’s photography collection.
Visitors will be invited to step back in time to the 1980s when the National Galleries of Scotland officially began its world-class photography collection.
Over 100 art works from Scotland’s national photography collection, dating from the 1840’s to the present day, will be on display at the free-to-visit exhibition.
The exhibition includes works by major photographers such as Julia Margaret Cameron, Robert Mapplethorpe and Annie Leibovitz, alongside portraits of famous Scots such as Andy Murray, The Proclaimers, Jackie Kay and David Tennant.
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A newly acquired work consisting of photographs, film and performance by Glasgow-based artists Beagles & Ramsay will also be on display for the first time.
Anne Lyden, Director-General at the National Galleries of Scotland, said: "Photography is a cornerstone of the National Galleries of Scotland, accounting for almost half of the entire collection. It is with great delight that we celebrate the medium with this impressive and engaging exhibition drawn entirely from the vast holdings of the nation’s collection.
"Over the course of the last forty years many photographers, collectors, donors, curators, and enthusiasts have contributed to this important world-class collection which belongs to the people of Scotland. We are excited to celebrate this anniversary with our visitors through such a dynamic display."
Joseph McKenzie, Gorbals Children, Glasgow, 1964 - 1965 (Image: © The Joseph McKenzie Archive)
Louise Pearson, Photography Curator at the National Galleries of Scotland, said: ‘The 40th anniversary is the perfect moment to draw from the full breadth of Scotland’s photography collection.
"This vibrant and fun exhibition includes photographs of famous Scots and works by photographers who have become household names. It opens many possibilities in making connections across our country’s photography collection, sharing highlights as well as celebrating lesser-known works. We want visitors to join us in celebrating the collection and take pride in Scotland’s contribution to photography worldwide."
Celebrating 40 Years of Scotland’s Photography Collection runs at the Portrait gallery from October 26 to March 16, 2025.
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