Edinburgh’s art scene offers plenty of museums and opportunities to discover something new, to reflect on the past, present and future, to delve deeper. Whether you’re into fine art, landscapes or political art, we’ve gathered the most noteworthy exhibitions in and around Edinburgh to witness for the year 2024.
1. Shifting Vistas: 250 Years of Scottish Landscape
City Art Centre, June 24, 2023 until June 2, 2024
It is safe to say the Scottish landscape is nothing short of spectacular, and has provided artists throughout history with endless buckets of inspiration. Guests can admire the evolving Scottish nature through art from as early as the 18th century, dating all the way to the present day. The exhibition includes paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures by artists such as Alexander Nasmyth, John Lavery, SJ Peploe, William Gillies, Joan Eardley, Victoria Crowe, Frances Walker and Kate Downie.
2. Family Activity Area at the Museum of Edinburgh
Museum of Edinburgh, December 14, 2022 until December 24, 2024
As part of the government’s cost of living support initiative, the Family Activity Area at the Museum of Edinburgh is one of the Warm Welcome Spaces dotted around the city. Visitors are invited to have some quality time with their family for free in a warm space and do some arts and crafts, as well as worksheets. The Museum of Edinburgh says: “Our activity area is packed full of art materials and worksheets relating to our galleries and amazing objects relating to the history of Edinburgh.” Plus, you can see what other families have been up to as people’s artwork is also displayed for everyone to see. It is free, so guests can just drop in between 10am and 5pm.
3. Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path
City Art Centre, May 11, 2024 until October 6, 2024
Adam Bruce Thomson (1885-1976) was an Edinburgh-born artist and is considered to have a significant impact on the local art scene. The artist practiced a diverse range of art, including printmaking techniques, drawing in pastels, and painting in oils and watercolours. He also taught spanning portraiture, still life, architecture and landscape themes. Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path is set to bring the noteworthy artist’s work back to life.
4. The Printmaker’s Art | Rembrandt to Rego
The Royal Scottish Academy, December 2 until February 25
As one of the most accessible art forms, printmaking gives pretty much anyone the ability to make art. The exhibition gives a nod to the art form, featuring some pretty amazing pieces from big names, such as Hokusai, Andy Warhol, Goya, Rembrandt, William Blake, Elizabeth Blackadder, Paula Rego, Bridget Riley and Pablo Picasso.
5. Fine Shadings: 250 Years of Painting in Scotland
The Fine Art Society, February 1 until March 16
Another fine art exhibition dedicated to the painters of Scotland, taking place at the Fine Art Society. Guests will be able to admire works from David Allan, John Henry Lorimer, Sam Brough, Alexander Carse, Sir William Fettes Douglas, John Knox, George Henry and many more. Plus, The Fine Art Society is located in a stunning building on Dundas Street, so wandering around the two floors is a delight on its own, no matter the exhibition.