Chavvin Awa at the Museum
Explore the fascinating world of Aberdeen Art Gallery's museum collections and the stories behind the artefacts in the upcoming event, Chavvin Awa at the Museum.
Led by Madeline Nehring, Team Leader of Collections, and Ross MacLennan, Curator, this provides a unique insight into how AAAGM curated the new View of Aberdeen collection gallery exhibition. Discover how artefacts find their way into museums, the individuals responsible for curating them, and the significance they hold.
Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the importance of capturing people's voices and stories alongside the preservation of physical objects.
Chavvin Awa at the Museum is part of That Belongs in a Museum! This series of events aims to involve the community in shaping the narrative of the collections. Don't miss this opportunity to gain behind-the-scenes insights, contribute to the dialogue surrounding museum collections, and help shape future exhibitions.
View of Aberdeen exhibition paints vibrant portrait of the city
Discover the vibrant voices of our diverse community at the View of Aberdeen exhibition, set to open its doors at Aberdeen Art Gallery tomorrow. This thrilling new exhibition contains contributions from many people in the city. It's a celebration of the myriad perspectives and experiences that shape the city, offering a platform to amplify the unique stories of its people.
View of Aberdeen embarks on a captivating journey through the collective narratives that form the rich tapestry of our city. Through a carefully curated selection of artworks, artefacts, and interactive displays, the exhibition brings to life the voices and visions of our residents. It illuminates their connections to Aberdeen in profound and inspiring ways.
View of Aberdeen - All walks of life
The team at Aberdeen Art Gallery has had conversations with people from all walks of life across the city. They have captured their thoughts and reflections on what Aberdeen means to them. The exhibition brings these viewpoints to life through a collection of inspiring artworks and objects that have resonated with the community. Each piece illuminates the exhibition's core themes: 'far I bide' (where I live), 'chavvin awa' (working), going 'oot n aboot' (out and about), and the city's well-known treasures, 'weel kent'.
A special event takes place on 10 June. Aberdeen Art Gallery is also hosting a special event that explores the intriguing journey of artefacts into museums. This event delves into how and why certain items find their place in museum collections. Join Madeline Nehring and Ross MacLennan as they provide insights into the development of the new View of Aberdeen gallery. This event aims to continue the engaging conversations that started at the memorable 'That Belongs in a Museum!' event last autumn.
The cultural tapestry of Aberdeen
Immerse yourself in the captivating stories of those who call Aberdeen home. From long-time residents to newcomers, students to professionals, and from all walks of life. Their perspectives weave together to paint a vibrant portrait of our city's identity. It's great to see the gallery celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Aberdeen. It explores the profound meaning behind our shared heritage.
Whether you're a native Aberdonian, a resident, a student, or simply visiting, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to delve into the essence of the Granite City. It's a great chance to experience its resilience and allure.
The View of Aberdeen exhibition opens at Aberdeen Art Gallery on Saturday 27 May. You can read more about the View of Aberdeen Project here. Cover Image by James Furneaux.
Making a Splash!
Making a Splash! A Century of Women’s Beachwear is a dive into seaside fashion exploring how it has evolved over time. The influence of social and political changes, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and innovative design and materials. These have all shaped the beachwear we know today. This new exhibition takes you on a journey through time, showcasing some incredible bathing costumes and other gems from the Archives, Gallery & Museums' collection of 20th-century beachwear.
The story behind Making a Splash!
The story behind the collection is even more special. Many of these fabulous pieces were generously gifted by Peggy Walker, a remarkable woman who left a lasting impact. Peggy, who taught dressmaking and costume design at the Northern College of Education in Aberdeen, had an unparalleled passion for historical costume. Her expertise and dedication formed the foundation of the costume and textile collection.
Making a Splash! will transport you back in time. You'll experience the fascinating evolution of beachwear firsthand. From the early 1900s to the swinging '60s and beyond, you'll witness the transformations in style, cuts, and fabrics that reflect the changing attitudes and trends of the era. Like stepping into a time machine that takes you through the heyday of beach fashion.
A tribute to Peggy's passion
But this exhibition is more than just a display of beautiful garments. It's a tribute to Peggy's passion, her dedication to preserving history, and the importance of understanding how fashion reflects our culture. Each piece tells a story, capturing the spirit of a bygone era and reminding us of the creativity and craftsmanship that went into creating these works of art.
So, if you're a fashion enthusiast, history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of design, don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of seaside fashion. Grab your sunglasses, put on your favourite beach hat, and make a splash at this remarkable exhibition.
Art Gallery micro commissions awarded to local artists
Aberdeen Art Gallery and Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery have announced the three local artists who will receive funding for micro commissions. The call for proposals was open to creatives residing in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The objective was to create new works that respond to Aberdeen's exceptional art and history collection.
The applicants were requested to share their experiences in Aberdeen, focusing on themes such as diversity, social justice, climate change, representation, identity, well-being, and migration. The commissioned artists will work with the Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums' collection and curatorial specialists. They can also exhibit their works through public talks, events, performances, workshops, and displays.
The artists awarded micro-commissions
Amy Benzie: Amy is a ceramic maker from Torry, Aberdeen, who finds inspiration in the interplay between art and science. She plans to explore local knowledge and traditional healing practices of the North East. And to create a collection of ceramics that reflect these themes.
Clive Ramage: A self-taught artist, Clive is known for his unique paintings and hand-made prints. He will create a triptych of prints inspired by the John Piper painting of Dunnottar Castle. He'll explore the theme of disintegration and how it can lead to creating something beautiful.
Helen Scaife: Helen is a painter and performance artist who intends to create a mixed-media painting that addresses global and local issues related to climate change. Her painting will be based on the setting of Aberdeen harbour. She has been inspired by the artwork Paddle Steamer 'Sovereign' Entering Aberdeen Harbour in the gallery collection.
Supported by the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums
The completed pieces could be small-scale, and the development and production process need not be extensive. The Aberdeen City Council will preserve the artworks, which could also become a permanent part of the collection.
This is the third round of micro-commissions sponsored by the Art Gallery and the first one supported by the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums. The Gallery received funding as a joint winner of Art Fund Museum of the Year in 2020. This is what led to the program's creation.
Michael Richardson, Chair of the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums, said: “The Friends are very proud of the support they have provided for the development of Aberdeen’s superb collection since the group was established in 1975. Over the years we have supported new acquisitions, conservation work and a large-scale site-specific commission for the Art Gallery during the redevelopment project.
"I’m delighted that we are now supporting the micro-commissions programme, which has become an in important source of support for local artists. Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums can come along and meet some of us during our next Friends’ Weekend at the Gallery on 15 and 16 April.”
Aberdeen Art Gallery brings a little serenity to Relaxed Mondays
Visitors to Aberdeen Art Gallery can now experience a new relaxed and comfortable environment on Mondays. The gallery team hopes Relaxed Mondays will appeal to those who may prefer a calmer environment. This includes families with neurodivergent children, neurodivergent young people and adults, adults living with dementia, and those with mental health problems.
To provide a more sensory-friendly environment, the Gallery has teamed up with Aberdeen charity, We Too! The team received ‘sensory first aid’ training and developed resources, such as an access guide, visual story, sensory den, and sensory kits, to make the experience more enjoyable for all visitors. The charity, which has previously supported visitors with additional support needs during the Spectra festival in 2022, will have their Ninjas on hand during this weekend's Spectra event.
Relaxed Mondays make everyone's experience memorable
Visitors on Relaxed Mondays can expect to be greeted by friendly, well-trained staff who are ready to answer any questions and make everyone's experience memorable. Sensory backpacks are available to borrow to further enhance the visit, including dark glasses, ear defenders, and fidget toys. A quiet sensory den has also been set up for those who may need a moment of peace.
Everyone is welcome to visit on Mondays, but to ensure a relaxed environment, the Gallery will not be accepting large group bookings. The friendly staff will be on hand to make everyone feel at home.
Creating the best customer experience for everyone
Phionna McInnes, of We Too! said, “As a customer-driven organisation, it’s our aim to reverse the inclusion model where Relaxed Sessions are predominantly for ASN (Additional Support Needs) participants, but in fact everyone is welcome as long as they are aware of the needs of others visiting at that time. It’s been great working with the Gallery team and other partners in the city who are passionate about inclusion and creating the best customer experience for everyone.”
Relaxed Mondays begin at Aberdeen Art Gallery on Monday 13 February.
Admission free
www.aagm.co.uk
Aberdeen Art Gallery set for a thrilling year ahead
Aberdeen Art Gallery has announced an exciting lineup of exhibitions for all ages and interests in 2023. The program includes a showcase of Sir Quentin Blake's book covers and illustrations, in honour of his 90th birthday. Additionally, 20 world-renowned photographers from the Magnum Photos collective have captured some of the most famous artists in recent history in their studios.
Three of Scotland's top artists, Lennox Dunbar, Ian Howard, and Arthur Watson, will also be returning to exhibit in their hometown. Also, a rare 17th-century manuscript recently added to the UNESCO-recognized city archives will shed light on the civic and religious life of the city during a time of political upheaval and religious persecution.
Overall, the program sounds like it has something for everyone and is definitely worth checking out.
Shadows and Light – The Extraordinary Life of James McBey
11 February – 28 May
Shadows and Light, curated by author Alasdair Soussi, celebrates Aberdeenshire-born artist and adventurer James McBey. He was noted for his etchings and dry point engravings, and was once described as the “heir to Rembrandt”. This small-scale exhibition is curated by author Alasdair Soussi to coincide with his recently-published biography of McBey.
Travelling Gallery
March
A new two-person exhibition by artist Emmie McLuskey and choreographer Janice Parker will be featured in the Contemporary Gallery on a bus in Aberdeen. The exhibit, titled "Movement," combines dance and art to explore the relationship between the two. Keep an eye out for the Travelling Gallery as it makes stops across the city in March.
The Testament of Alexander Jaffray
4 March – 3 September
The Testament of Alexander Jaffray is an exhibition that examines the life of the two-time provost of Aberdeen. 2023 marks the 350th anniversary of the death of Alexander Jaffray, representative of the burgh in the Scottish Parliament. This prominent member of the community later became a Quaker, at a time when doing so would certainly mean persecution.
Where Ideas are Born
1 April – 11 June
Get ready for a visual feast at Aberdeen Art Gallery. Where Ideas are Born brings together over 20 talented photographers from the famous Magnum agency. This includes legends like Inge Morath, Eve Arnold, and Robert Capa. You’ll see 70 mesmerising photo portraits of world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol, George O’Keeffe, Ai Weiwei, and Yayoi Kusama.
Making a Splash! A Century of Women’s Beachwear
10 June – 14 January
Experience the evolution of beach fashion as it was shaped by historical events, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and groundbreaking design and material advancements. Dive into the Archives, Gallery & Museums' collection of stunning 20th-century beachwear, including iconic bathing costumes, in this must-see exhibition. See how the sands of time have shaped the way we dress for the beach.
Quentin Blake – Illustrating Verse and Book Covers
8 July – 17 September
Two Aberdeen Art Gallery exhibitions celebrate the talents of Quentin Blake. Illustrating Verse brings together for the first time a selection of Blake’s sketches and illustrations for a range of poetry, from comic nonsense poems to poignant ballads. While Book Covers demonstrates how Quentin Blake's illustrations have grabbed the attention of readers of all ages over the past 60 years. The exhibition includes reproductions of the cover artwork and rough sketches which give insights into Blake’s unmistakable work.
Constructed Narratives: Lennox Dunbar, Ian Howard, Arthur Watson
14 October – 28 January
Discover the works of three of Scotland's premier artists at this must-see exhibition. Lennox Dunbar, Ian Howard, and Arthur Watson, all hailing from Aberdeen, were nurtured by art teacher Charles Hemingway at Aberdeen Grammar School and went on to hold influential roles in Scotland's art scene.
About Aberdeen Art Gallery
Aberdeen Art Gallery is a vibrant cultural hub located in the heart of the city. Since its founding in 1884, the gallery has played a vital role in the cultural life of the region, showcasing a wide range of art from both local and international artists.
The gallery is home to a stunning collection of works of art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and photographs. The collection is diverse and varied. It features works by some of the most renowned artists in history, such as Monet and Renoir. In addition to these classics, the gallery also has a strong focus on contemporary art, with regular exhibitions featuring the work of emerging artists from around the world.
Where Ideas are Born
Where Ideas are Born brings together over 20 talented photographers from the famous Magnum agency. This includes legends like Inge Morath, Eve Arnold, and Robert Capa. You'll see 70 mesmerising photo portraits of world-renowned artists, capturing the exact moment when inspiration strikes and ideas come to life.
From the Parisian avant-garde of the early 20th century, to the New York lofts of American pop and minimal artists, to the state-of-the-art studios of today's contemporary art superstars. Where Ideas are Born features photographic portraits of artists like Andy Warhol, George O'Keeffe, Ai Weiwei, and Yayoi Kusama. All in their own creative habitats. Don't miss it!
5 fantastic reasons to visit Aberdeen Art Gallery
Aberdeen Art Gallery is a vibrant cultural hub located in the heart of Aberdeen. Established in 1884, it’s a central cultural destination in the heart of the city, but since it’s re-opening in 2019, it has taken on a more welcoming member of the community. Gone are the days of shushing security guards and signs saying “no photography!” This is a space you can enjoy in short bites, or for a whole day.
It showcases classics and contemporary art, regularly exhibiting the works of emerging artists. The collections on display are always changing. In fact, it looks like the 2023 schedule of events is going to be one of its busiest yet.
The gallery's transformative renovation
The renovation of the gallery, which began in 2015, was a highly anticipated project in the city. The project aimed to transform the gallery into a world-class cultural destination for the community.
The renovation provided additional exhibition space and a rooftop terrace. It reopened in 2019 and attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world. The gallery was named Scotland’s building of the year in 2021 following the £36.4m redevelopment.
The Aberdeen Art Gallery is home to a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from traditional Scottish paintings to modern contemporary pieces.
The gallery regularly hosts exhibitions featuring the work of both local and international artists, providing visitors with the opportunity to see a wide range of artistic styles and techniques.
5 reasons you should visit Aberdeen Art Gallery
- The gallery is located in the heart of Aberdeen and is free to visit, making it easily accessible and convenient for you to spend time there.
- The gallery is a popular cultural destination for both locals and tourists, offering a unique experience for all who visit.
- Visiting the Aberdeen Art Gallery is a great way to spend an afternoon exploring the city's rich cultural heritage and supporting the local art community. It's a lot of fun. Long gone are the stuffy days of "No Cameras" and "Keep Quiet!"
- One of the standout features of the Aberdeen Art Gallery is its impressive architecture. The building itself is a work of art and grand design. The interior of the gallery is equally impressive, with high ceilings, ornate plasterwork, and marble floors.
- Visitors to the Aberdeen Art Gallery are able to explore the various galleries and exhibitions at their leisure. There is also the option to take a guided tour led by the gallery's knowledgeable and friendly staff members.
Temporary exhibitions are a reason to visit regularly
In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions are an excellent way to see a diverse range of art and provide a chance for visitors to experience something new and exciting every time they visit.
One of the highlights of the temporary exhibitions program is the annual open submission show, which invites artists from all over Scotland to submit their work for consideration. This show is a great opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their talent and get their work seen by a wider audience.
Aberdeen Art Gallery tours and educational visits
In addition to its art collection and exhibitions, Aberdeen Art Gallery also offers a range of educational and community programs. These include artist talks, workshops, and school holiday activities, as well as special events and talks. These programs provide a great opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn more about the world of art and get involved in the cultural life of the city.
Overall, Aberdeen Art Gallery is an essential destination for anyone interested in art and culture. Its stunning architecture, impressive collection, and engaging program of exhibitions and events make it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. So next time you're in Aberdeen, be sure to pay a visit to this wonderful cultural institution.
Upcoming events at Aberdeen Art Gallery
Quentin Blake – Illustrating Verse and Book Covers
Aberdeen Art Gallery showcases two exhibitions celebrating the unique talent of Quentin Blake. The UK's best-loved illustrator has just celebrated his 90th birthday.
Quentin Blake - Illustrating Verse
Illustrating Verse brings together for the first time a selection of Blake's sketches and illustrations for a range of poetry, from comic nonsense poems to poignant ballads by writers including William Shakespeare, Edward Lear, Michael Rosen and Roald Dahl, as well as Blake’s own popular rhyming picture book Mr Magnolia.
Quentin Black - Book Covers
Book Covers demonstrates how Quentin Blake illustrations have grabbed the attention of readers of all ages over the past 60 years. The exhibition includes reproductions of cover artwork and rough sketches which give insights into Blake’s unmistakable and ever-popular way of working.
The Last Testament of Alexander Jaffray
This new exhibition at Aberdeen Art Gallery showcases The Last Testament of Alexander Jaffray. A rare and important document from 1673 that provides a fascinating insight into his faith at a time of religious persecution and political upheaval.
The Last Testament of Alexander Jaffray was acquired by Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire Archives in 2022, with financial assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions, the Friends of the National Libraries, and the Niven Bequest, which was left to the council’s archive several years ago. This is the first time the manuscript has been publicly displayed, so it is a great time to learn about Jaffray's fascinating and turbulent life.
Jaffray was a two-time Provost of Aberdeen, educated at Aberdeen Grammar School and Marischal College. Jaffray's religious affiliations changed throughout his life and reflected the religious upheaval of society. But following his retirement from political and civic life, Jaffray devoted his time to religious thinking. His views on religious liberty were broadened by his contact with Oliver Cromwell, and in 1662, he joined the Quakers.
During the 1660s and 1670s, the Quaker community in Aberdeen was likely the largest in Scotland. However, they became the focus of significant repression and persecution by the burgh authorities, who viewed them with suspicion and as a threat to the established order. Several of the leading lights within the Aberdeen Quakers, including Alexander Jaffray himself, were former magistrates or wives of magistrates, which made their break with traditional Protestantism all the more infuriating for those who remained within the established church and perceived the very presence of the Quaker community as an insult to authority.