A sensational year of art for everyone at National Galleries of Scotland in 2025
National Galleries of Scotland announces an unmissable programme of free and ticketed exhibitions set to take over the National, Portrait and Modern galleries in Edinburgh throughout 2025.
Article Source: National Galleries of Scotland
Last Updated: 3 December 2024 17:33
From striking installations in Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years to time travelling into The World of King James VI and I, taking to the skies with Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer, a celebration of 250 years of JMW Turner with Turner in January: Ireland’s Vaughan Bequest and more. There will be a sensational array of art to enjoy in the Scottish capital next year.
Ticketed exhibitions can be booked online now: What's on - National Galleries of Scotland
From 26 July until 2 November 2025, immerse yourself in a major large-scale exhibition by Andy Goldsworthy. Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years will take over the upper and lower galleries in the Royal Scottish Academy building for the summer. Based in Scotland, Goldsworthy (born 1956) is internationally famous for his extraordinary work with natural materials. The exhibition will span five decades of creation with over 200 works including photographs, sculptures, and expansive new installations. Goldsworthy will also create several major new works onsite at the Royal Scottish Academy building especially for Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years. This spectacular summer exhibition is sure to be one of the most talked-about of the year - and it is showing only in Edinburgh.
Next spring at the Portrait, travel back in time and be immersed in The World of King James VI and I. Son of Mary, Queen of Scots, successor to Elizabeth I and the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England and Ireland, get to know King James (1566 - 1625) and step into the world in which he lived, ruled and changed forever. Marking the 400-year anniversary of King James’s death, this exhibition will chart his remarkable reign through stories of friendship, family, feuds and ambition. Drawing on themes with contemporary relevance, including national identity, queer history, belief and spirituality, The World of King James VI and I will be an enriching journey through the complex life of a King who changed the shape of the United Kingdom. Over 100 objects will be on display, including ornate paintings, dazzling jewels, lavish designs and important loans from galleries across the UK, celebrating craft and visual art from the 16th and 17th centuries. From 26 April – 14 September 2025 come and be fully immersed in the sights, sounds (and even smells) of the period, connecting the people of the past with the people of today. Tickets are on sale now.
In 2025 the National Galleries of Scotland will commemorate the 250th birthday of beloved British artist JMW Turner (1775 - 1851) with a once in a lifetime, free exhibition. For the first time, visitors will be able to marvel at over 30 Turner watercolours from Dublin. Turner in January: Ireland’s Vaughan Bequest at the Royal Scottish Academy building will be one-off special take on the keenly awaited and much-loved annual tradition. Spanning the breadth of Turner’s career, visitors can roam through sweeping seascapes, dramatic landscapes and spectacular cities, many displayed in their original frames. As part of this special partnership, the Turner works from the Scottish national collection will go on display at the National Gallery of Ireland allowing visitors in both Scotland and Ireland to connect with works from the Henry Vaughan Bequest they don’t often get to see.
There will be another two new and exciting projects making their way to the Moderns in 2025. From next summer you can explore your collection at Modern One with a series of new free displays showcasing magnificent and diverse works of 20th and 21st century art belonging to the people of Scotland. This includes an opportunity to see compelling works from ARTIST ROOMS, the national touring collection cared for jointly by the National Galleries of Scotland and Tate. Discover the bold and varied self-portraits of Robert Mapplethorpe, immerse yourself in Louise Bourgeois’s evocative practice, and be captivated by the works of Helen Chadwick in a new ARTIST ROOMS display. Chadwick’s Self Portrait (1991) from Scotland’s national collection will feature alongside the major sculptural installation, Piss Flowers (1991-2), which will be lent by Tate having recently been donated as part of the D.Daskalopoulos Collection Gift. Explore this powerful new presentation of the nation’s superb contemporary and modern collection from 12 July 2025. A further exhibition taking place at Modern Two will be announced in early 2025.
The centenary of revered Scottish artist Ian Hamilton Finlay (1925 - 2006) will also be marked in a new free display of his work at Modern Two from 8 March to 26 May 2025. A visionary in his craft, Ian Hamilton Finlay harnessed the power of collaboration throughout his career, drawing on the expertise of fellow makers and creators to bring his artistic visions to life. Hailed as a poet, sculptor, printmaker, gardener and provocateur, his practice covered a wide range of media, reflected in this display through over 30 sculptures, installations and prints as well as extensive archival materials, all from Scotland’s national collection.
Moving into the autumn at the Portrait, take to the skies and see the world from above the clouds through the remarkable work of Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer. A trailblazer in his field, Buckham (1879 - 1956) soared above the realms of what was thought to be possible in 20th century photography and aviation. From 18 October 2025 – 19 April 2026, meet the man behind some of the most iconic aerial photographs, marvel at the death-defying lengths he took to capture the perfect image and explore how his innovative techniques paved the way for modern technologies such as Photoshop and AI.
Explore the imaginative Your Art World exhibition at the National, showcasing the inspirational works of young artists from all over Scotland aged 3 – 18-year-olds. The exhibition is a celebration of what happens when young people are encouraged to be wildly creative. Discover installations from school and community groups who have worked alongside the National Galleries of Scotland. Or even view the creations of the young people in your own life. With the opportunity to upload artwork online via the website, anyone aged 3-18 can see their own digital submissions on screen in the gallery. Immerse yourself in the imagination of these young artists from 10 May to 2 November 2025.
Anne Lyden, Director-General at the National Galleries of Scotland said: “We're really excited to announce our 2025 public programme, which is packed full of fantastic exhibitions. Breathtaking installations at the Royal Scottish Academy, soaring above the clouds at the Portrait gallery, and modern and contemporary highlights from your national collection at the Moderns. Whether you want to be inspired, find a moment of calm or share a joyful experience with friends - there's so much to discover at the National Galleries of Scotland.”
Image: Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775 - 1851) Edinburgh from below Arthur's Seat, 1801 Watercolour, graphite and gouache on off white wove paper
NGI.2410
National Gallery of Ireland Collection
Image, National Gallery of Ireland
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Scottish artist Jasleen Kaur wins Turner Prize 2024
Jasleen Kaur, whose exhibition Alter Altar at Tramway uses a vintage Ford Escort, worship bells and Irn-Bru to celebrate the Scottish Sikh community, has won this year's Turner Prize.
READ MORE
TRNSMT reveals superstar first acts for Glasgow Green 2025
50 Cent, Biffy Clyro, Snow Patrol, The Script, Fontaines D.C. and Gracie Abrams are included among the much-anticipated first wave of artists announced for Scotland's biggest music event.
READ MORE
A sensational year of art for everyone at National Galleries of Scotland in 2025
National Galleries of Scotland announces an unmissable programme of free and ticketed exhibitions set to take over the National, Portrait and Modern galleries in Edinburgh throughout 2025.
READ MORE
Warninks Advocaat brings a festive Christmas Lights recycling service to Edinburgh
The Warninks ‘swap and recycle’ initiative is a FREE bookable service which delivers a Warninks Light Technician to your door, who will deliver new Christmas lights and recycle the old.
READ MORE
Thistle Be a Merry Little Christmas
For one day only, on Saturday 7th December, Laura Bond and Thistle Street’s independent businesses will unite to offer exclusive holiday deals!
READ MORE
December at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From a Christmas Cabaret to a Hogmanay Ball, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's festive events this December!
READ MORE
Mindroom Celebrates Success Of Volunteering Scheme
Edinburgh Based Neurodiversity Charity Celebrates the Impact of its Vital Volunteer Programme ahead of International Volunteers Day (December 5).
READ MORE
New Co op store set to launch in Shawfair Park
The Co-op’s newest store launches on the 6th December in Shawfair Park, Edinburgh
READ MORE
Fort Kinnaird and Cyrenians call on local community to help spread festive cheer
Fort Kinnaird has teamed up with Cyrenians to launch a ‘Letters of Hope’ initiative, as part of the charity’s winter appeal to combat social isolation.
READ MORE
Cafe Andaluz Stockbridge reaches meatball milestone as it celebrates first birthday with Edinburgh Accies
Café Andaluz Stockbridge celebrated one year at Raeburn Place by inviting the entire Accies team to tuck into its most popular dish, Albondigas (Spanish meatballs).
READ MORE
Coca Cola Christmas Truck Tour is heading to Edinburgh tomorrow
Holidays Are Coming! The Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour, will be parking up on Saturday 30th November, at Fort Kinnard, Edinburgh.
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Festival is a Christmas cracker this year!
A family rollercoaster, giant snow globe, children's rides, stalls, street food and a packed live entertainment schedule makes Loch Lomond Shores FREE Christmas festival the perfect Christmas day out!
READ MORE
Festive window display pays tribute to Edinburgh charity hero
In a celebration of community spirit and festive joy, Edinburgh’s very own local legend, Shikha Ahuja, is being honoured in a vibrant Christmas window display at Pret A Manger on North Bridge.
READ MORE
Palace of Holyroodhouse lit up for Christmas
Visitors to the Palace of Holyroodhouse will now see the State Apartments decorated with magnificent Christmas displays.
READ MORE
Brewer gives away free pints to celebrate mockumentary launch
Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn lifts the lid on the beer industry with a mockumentary starring real employees and comedians Paul Dockery and Katie McKenzie.
READ MORE
Johnnie Walker Princes Street Has The Festive Season All Wrapped Up
Johnnie Walker Princes Street Has The Festive Season All Wrapped Up as it Successfully defends “World’s Leading Spirit Experience” Crown.
READ MORE
Bonnie & Wild Food Hall unveils its bumper Christmas offer
Edinburgh Food Hall Bonnie & Wild has unwrapped its bumper Christmas offer with a festive feast of seasonal specials, daily drinks tastings, extended trading hours, and even a Boxing Day ceilidh.
READ MORE
We have our own Moo Deng
Haggis, the newest pygmy hippo taking the internet by storm, can now be spotted in her habitat at Edinburgh Zoo alongside her mum Gloria.
READ MORE
Christmas tree season arrives at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is marking the official start of the 2024 festive season with its delivery of 50,000 real Christmas trees, available at stores across the UK now.
READ MORE
Glasgow music festival The Reeling announces extended 2025 dates and performances from Dougie Maclean, Eddi Reader and Valtos
A popular trad music festival is set to return in 2025 – and it's adding an extra night due to demand!
READ MORE
Final date added as 30,000 expected at biggest itison Drive In Movies Christmas
itison Drive In Movies Christmas adds final date after unprecedented demand with tickets for Elf & Love Actually on sale on Wednesday 27th November at 7.30am.
READ MORE
Get messy this Christmas with the award winning burger restaurant, El Perro Negro
The holidays are here, and El Perro Negro is bringing the festive spirit in true mouthwatering style!
READ MORE
Fun for all ages with Capital Theatres Festive Season
Capital Theatres aims to share the magic and wonder of the festive season with everyone with Cinderella, The Gift, Scottish Ballet’s The Nutcracker and a Care Homes Tour of Jack in the Box.
READ MORE
Revolutionary swim teaching tool launches in Scotland
A pioneering visual teaching tool has launched across Scotland, making swimming lessons more accessible to everyone.
READ MORE
Step back in time this Christmas at a brand new underground Victorian Christmas experience
The Real Mary King’s Close invites you a brand-new immersive experience, uncovering how fascinating Victorian traditions shaped the way we celebrate Christmas today.
READ MORE
Festive favourites back on the big screen at Vue in Scotland
To mark the countdown to Christmas, some of the most loved holiday classics are being brought back to the big screen at Vue venues in Scotland this festive season.
READ MORE
Castle of Light illuminates the 900th anniversary of Edinburgh with spectacular opening night
Locals and visitors from across the country helped kickstart the celebrations in the capital as Castle of Light, the interactive light trail at Edinburgh Castle, officially opened to the public.
READ MORE
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery At The Arches
World-renowned distillers, Edinburgh Gin, will open the doors to its brand new distillery at The Arches on Friday 6th December.
READ MORE
Capital Theatres and Stewart Brewing announce fundraising collaboration for Kings Theatre
Capital Theatres has teamed up with Stewart Brewing to create a limited edition can for the pantomime season, with £1 from every sale going towards the redevelopment of the King’s Theatre.
READ MORE
Reigniting Magical Memories with Nostalgia at Six by Nico in Edinburgh
Six by Nico has unveiled its latest six-course concept, transporting guests back to the good old days with déjà vu food that serves a taste of forgotten flavours with every bite.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links