The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum is staging two exhibitions on Scottish painting which feature artworks from the City’s nationally significant Fine Art collection from Friday November 4, 2016.
‘Sense of Place’ focuses on landscapes by Scottish artists, starting with the pioneering work of the Glasgow Boys. Inspired by French practice, ‘The Boys’ moved out of the studio to paint out-of-doors, en plein air. With this new spirit of naturalism, artists were able to capture the effects of light and the weather, breathing new life into Scottish art.
Throughout the twentieth century the strong tradition of landscape painting continued with the vibrant and colourful paintings by the Scottish Colourists. The inter-war years are represented by the intellectual and progressive work of William McCance and William Johnstone. Alongside are the highly detailed, panoramic landscapes by McIntosh Patrick. Contemporary artist, Graeme Todd, rounds off the display with a work that borders on abstraction.
‘Out of the Frame’ examines how Scottish artists have experimented and engaged with abstract art. Turning their backs on realistic representation, they focus instead on colour, shape, form and gestural marks. Whilst some use these to express thoughts and emotions, others let them stand-alone, creating art based purely on visual effect.
From early protagonist William Gear, to contemporary painter Callum Innes, Scots continue to find new ways to engage with the seemingly endless possibilities of abstraction. The exhibition includes the City’s latest fine art acquisition in the shape of three abstract works by Victoria Morton.
Bob Duncan, chair of Leisure & Culture Dundee said,
“A focus on Scottish paintings is the latest in a series of annual displays which explore different areas of the City’s exceptional art collection. Some of Scotland’s greatest artists from the late nineteenth century up to the present day will be represented in two spectacular exhibitions”.
The exhibitions are open from Friday November 4, 2016 and admission is free. ‘Sense of Place’ extends until Autumn 2017, ‘Out of the Frame’ runs until Sunday 23 April 2017.
Opening Times: Mon to Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12.30-4.30pm
Closed 24-26 December 2016 also 1 and 2 January 2017
