National Galleries of Scotland prepares for a sensational year of art for everyone 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: 9 July 2024 9:19

• Be immersed in Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years
• Travel back in time to The World of King James VI and I
• Celebrate 250 years of JMW Turner in Turner in January: The Vaughan Bequest from the National Gallery of Ireland
• Take to the skies with Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer
• Discover magnificent works from ARTIST ROOMS
• Mark the centenary of Scottish artist Ian Hamilton Finlay
• Explore the imaginative creations of young people in Your Art World

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: The Vaughan Bequest from the National Gallery of Ireland 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: The Vaughan Bequest from the National Gallery of Ireland 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 two new and exciting exhibitions making their way to the Modern in 2025. From next summer you can explore your collection at Modern One with a series of new 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 your ARTIST ROOMS collection, cared for jointly by the National Galleries of Scotland and Tate. Explore this exhibition of the nation’s superb contemporary and modern collection from 12 July 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 new 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: Lyden Director General of the National Galleries of Scotland.
Image Credit: Nick Mailer 2

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Edinburgh News

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh Unveils Haunting Halloween Event with a Dramatic Twist

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is partnering with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society and North Edinburgh Nightmares for a spine-chilling evening of storytelling, whisky, and elevated seasonal dining.

Cold Town House in Edinburgh crowned Best Beer Destination in Scotland

Edinburgh’s iconic castle-view bar has been crowned Scotland’s ‘Best Beer Destination’ for the first time at this year’s Scottish Beer Awards.

Loch Lomond Shores has got the October school holidays sorted

There's loads to see and do – from pet friendly days out to breakfast with dinosaurs, loch tours and much more!

Keela and Mountaineering Scotland launch new campaign

Keela, the Scottish outdoor clothing brand, and Mountaineering Scotland Launch ‘Within You’, an new three-month campaign, inspiring Confidence, Connection, and Adventure in the Outdoors!

Book Week Scotland 2025 programme announced

Scotland's national celebration of books, Book Week Scotland, returns from 17th to 23rd November and tickets are on sale now!

Dobbies donates Christmas trees to local communities

Dobbies Garden Centres is lifting community spirits this season with a Christmas tree donation across the country, in partnership with Needlefresh.

Community group for families effected by suicide say art can be empowering

With Friday 10 October marking World Mental Health Day, community group, Lothians Speak Their Name, have shared the ‘powerful’ effect that art has had since the passing of their loved ones.

Football legends lace up for 150 mile charity walk inspired by Marcus Stewart, Stephen Darby and the late Doddie Weir

Former Celtic and Scotland football heroes to join ex-player with MND on 150-mile March of The Day to raise funds to help tackle the disease.

First winners announced for GUITARGUITAR Scottish Music Awards

Amy MacDonald, Hue and Cry, Nathan Evans and The Saint PHNX Band, Skipinnish, Shay O'Dowd and James Emmanuel are among the first winners to be announced for the GUITARGUITAR Scottish Music Awards!

Step into stories of Scotland this October with Living History

Scotland’s colourful past bursts to life this October as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) returns with its popular Living History programme for the school holidays.

Amber restaurant joins forces with The Real Mary Kings Close for Halloween programme

This October, The Real Mary King’s Close, one of the UK’s top-rated experiences on TripAdvisor, partners with Amber Restaurant for a Halloween experience on the Royal Mile.

Scottish single mother turned her passion for protecting the planet into a royal range for Balmoral

Ten years ago Laura Thomas returned to the UK with two children and just £200. Now with a booming business to her name, this East Lothian entrepreneur is designing ranges for Balmoral Estate.

Autumn events at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched new offerings designed for cosy coastal retreats and joyful pre-festive celebrations.

Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week launches to inspire the nation with Find Your Fit campaign

The Scottish Government's Women and Girls in Sport Week launches this week, celebrating the power of movement and encouraging women and girls of all ages to get active in ways that work for them.

Finnish Long Drink Breaks Fringe Records for Summerhall Arts

Lonkero, Finland’s iconic long drink, has made history at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe by serving a record-breaking number of pints at Summerhall’s courtyard - while raising vital funds.

Last call for supporters to share their Murrayfield Memories as centenary celebrations beckon

HUNDREDS of fans from Scotland and across the globe have been sharing their most treasured memories of Scottish Gas Murrayfield as the stadium prepares to mark its centenary year.

HIV ALOUD: RAISE THE CURTAIN

The Edinburgh Playhouse and Waverley Care are pleased to announce a new collaboration, HIV ALOUD: RAISE THE CURTAIN, an arts initiative to share stories of those living with HIV.

Unlimited adventures for less than a tank of petrol

With the October school holidays fast approaching, ScotRail has unveiled a new, affordable way for families to make the most of the break!

Jali Film Weekender announces Full Programe

Jali Collective is proud to reveal the full programme for the first ever Jali Film Weekender, taking place at Filmhouse, Edinburgh from 30 October – 2 November 2025.

Lead Casting announced for Mean Girls

Lorne Michaels, Crossroads Live and Sonia Friedman Productions are delighted to announce initial casting of the award-winning Mean Girls The Musical.

Cafe Calton Unveils Seasonal Evening Menu and Pre Theatre Dining Experience

Perched atop the iconic Calton Hill, Café Calton has unveiled its new Autumn/Winter Evening Menu, alongside a specially curated Pre-Theatre Dining Experience.

October at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

From Cocktail Week to Artist in Residence, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in October!

Seachdain na Gaidhlig (World Gaelic Week) 2026 launches with rallying call to use it, or lose it

Seachdain na Gàidhlig will return in 2026, under the banner Use It or Lose It – and organisers are encouraging people across Scotland and the global diaspora to get behind the rallying cry.

Brits brewing up a storm: Macdonald Hotels reports coffee surge

Brits are now picking up the cafetière, with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts revealing a 10% rise in coffee sales across its 32 UK hotels and resorts in the past year.

Bonnie & Wild and Fierce Beer team up for craft bar residency

Craft brewery Fierce Beer shows appetite for Bonnie & Wild with launch of new bar residency and tailored food and drink pairings.

Local Charities and Communities at the Heart of Edinburghs Christmas 2025

Spreading Christmas cheer, Edinburgh’s Christmas offers over 8,500 free tickets to local community groups and charities.

Spooky season brings horror icons and vampire romance back to the big screen at Vue

Some of the latest horror blockbusters – alongside creepy classics, enchanting family favourites and the ever-popular Twilight Saga – will all be heading to Vue venues this Halloween.

Two Edinburgh Bakeries launch unique Macaron and Cake Tower

Mademoiselle Macaron and Mimi’s Bakehouse have announced a new collaboration which combines handcrafted French macarons with signature sponge tiers in a bespoke macaron and cake tower.

Full Line up Announced for Soundhouse Winter Festival

The 2025 Soundhouse Winter Festival returns from Thursday 27 November to Monday 1 December at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, thanks to support from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.