Gordon Contemporaries Exhibition Showcases Local Talent at Aberdeen Art Gallery

Aberdeen Art Gallery has recently launched an inspiring exhibition titled Gordon Contemporaries, featuring works from award-winning artists with deep ties to the North East. This collection celebrates the achievements of artists who have won The David and June Gordon Memorial Trust Award at the Royal Scottish Academy New Contemporaries exhibition, which has been spotlighting emerging talent since 2008.

The exhibition showcases the creations of 18 artists, including notable names such as Nicole Porter, Lizzie Lilley, Kinga Elliott, and Ade Adesina, a Gray’s School of Art graduate and elected Royal Scottish Academician in 2017. Each piece on display was produced within the last year, offering a fresh look at the contemporary art scene in Scotland.

The Royal Scottish Academy has been committed to nurturing and promoting new artists and architects through the RSA New Contemporaries exhibition. This event carefully selects works from the degree shows of Scotland’s five main art colleges and architecture schools, including Aberdeen’s own Gray’s School of Art and the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture.

The artists have all spoken of the importance of the award to them at a time when they graduating from their studies in art and architecture, providing invaluable encouragement and a welcome boost to their confidence as they embarked on a new chapter in the creative development.

Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council culture spokesperson

Gordon Contemporaries is a celebration of artistic achievement and a tribute to the legacy of The David and June Gordon Memorial Trust, which has supported arts, community, and youth organisations in the North East for nearly five decades. The Trust was established in 1975 by the late 4th Marquess of Aberdeen and Temair, David Gordon, and his wife, June, who were passionate about music, the arts, and community service. Following June Gordon’s death in 2009, the Trust was renamed in their honour.

This exhibition, presented in association with Haddo Arts and supported by McInroy & Wood, Personal Investment Managers, reflects the continuous support of the David and June Gordon Memorial Trust for emerging talents in the region. It underscores the importance of encouragement and recognition for artists at critical stages of their careers.

Gordon Contemporaries is open at Aberdeen Art Gallery until November 24, 2024. Admission is free.