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ARTS, CULTURE & TOURISM
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0131 624 6200
Scottish National Galler y of Moder n Ar t
75 Belford Road, Edinbur gh, EH4 3DR
Although more famous for it’s traditional art,
including the sort of paintings that occupy pride
of place in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery,
Scotland also loves its contemporary art. The
nation’s best collection of modern art can be found
on Edinburgh’s Bedford Road. It’s here that the
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is sited,
with a series of sculptures and exhibits catching
your eye before you’ve even entered the building.
The art starts on the front lawn and from there
it’s an endless procession of the inventive, the
enchanting and the occasionally macabre. Great
contemporary art doesn’t allow itself to be pigeon-
holed, and you’ll find some eclectic styles on
display here, not only in the permanent exhibitions,
but in the guest exhibits which are regularly
hosted. Admission is free and the gallery is open
daily from 10am to 5pm. Modern One and Modern
Two are the buildings which house Scotland’s
contemporary art, the former a neoclassical
building designed by William Burn in 1825. Modern
Two was built in 1833 and was later converted
into a gallery to house the impressive collection of
Dada and Surrealist art by Eduardo Paolozzi. Major
artworks that visitors will want to check out include
Paolozzi’s Master of the Universe and Picasso’s
Mother and Child. Then there’s the Exploding
Raphaelite Head which truly will blow your mind.
60s modern artist Joan Eardley’s work can also be
seen here. Roam the sculpture park in the grounds
then step inside and prepare to be wowed by what
you see. Once you’ve taken your fill of modern art,
visit Cafe Modern One where al fresco dining can
be enjoyed on the garden terrace. Enjoy a leisurely
cup of coffee with friends or a light and refreshing
salad while you catch up with friends.
SCOTTISH NATIONAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART
