A Summer of Resistance at the National Galleries of Scotland

National Galleries of Scotland announces the unmissable summer 2025 exhibition Resistance, conceived by acclaimed artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen.

Article Source: National Galleries of Scotland
Last Updated: 24 March 2025 16:27

National Galleries Scotland: Modern Two
21 June 2025 – 4 January 2026

Taking over the whole of Modern Two from 21 June 2025, the exhibition will explore how acts of resistance have shaped life in the UK, and the powerful role of photography in documenting and driving change. Tickets are on sale now.

Presenting around 200 photographs from a century of activism, Resistance gives a voice to the stories and images from history which have been buried in UK archives until now. Throughout the exhibition McQueen amplifies underrepresented voices to present a compelling exploration of overlooked histories, shedding light on the forgotten stories that have helped define the course of Britain’s history. Resistance tours to Modern Two from Turner Contemporary, Margate.

This exhibition will bring together works by renowned photographers such as Vanley Burke, John Deakin, Fay Godwin, Edith Tudor-Hart, David Hurn, Tish Murtha, Humphrey Spender, and Paul Trevor, alongside lesser-known photographers who documented these powerful stories. Drawing photographs from various archives, collections and image libraries, McQueen has deliberately focused on moments captured before digital cameras became commonplace.

Spanning both floors of Modern Two, Resistance spans from the radical suffrage movement in 1903 to the largest-ever protest in Britain’s history—the Anti-Iraq War Protest in 2003. The exhibition will also highlight lesser-known events including the hunger marches of the 1930s where thousands of protesters from Scotland and across Britain marched to London, protesting unemployment and poverty. As well as the Blind March of 1920, a pivotal moment in the fight for disability rights.

Visitors will encounter poignant images from demonstrations against environmental destruction, anti-nuclear campaigns and actions advocating for peace. The exhibition will trace the evolution of environmental movements and highlight a shift from single-issue demonstrations to broader anti-capitalist efforts that paved the way for today’s climate change action. Including powerful photographs from the 1000-mile march from Faslane Naval Base to Greenham Common in protest against American nuclear weapons being stationed in the UK in 1983. From Janine Wiedel’s photographs capturing life at Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp to Andrew Testa’s striking depictions of the 1996 protests against the proposed Newbury Bypass in Berkshire, England, Resistance will serve as a testament to the empowering impact of collective action.

It will explore the intersections between movements such as the Gay Liberation Front and the Women’s Liberation Movement, where protests against Section 28 of the Local Government Act brought the LGBTQ+ community together. Connecting historic struggles, the exhibition will also examine the fight against fascism in the 1930s and 1940s.

The exhibition will underscore the ongoing struggle against racism, showing how grassroots movements have consistently confronted oppression throughout history. A pivotal moment was the Black People’s Day of Action on 2 March 1981, following the house fire at 439 New Cross Road in South East London, that claimed 13 lives. The photographs that captured the protest powerfully depict this landmark for Britain’s civil rights movement. Paul Trevor’s series on the Bengali community will further illustrate how the emerging concept of community photography became a form of activism, amplifying the voices of marginalised groups.

Steve McQueen said: Within the 5 years of developing the exhibition and book with the Turner Contemporary team, it has been an ambition for Resistance to travel to Scotland to be shared with audiences there. Resistance explores how people have challenged the status quo—a mission that feels especially urgent in today's political climate.”

Leila Riszko, Assistant Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at National Galleries of Scotland said: “We’re enormously proud to platform this compelling selection of works curated by Steve McQueen. This is an exciting opportunity to explore the power of photography in documenting the significant yet underrepresented stories of people who’ve helped shape the world we live in today. In these divisive times, many of the themes, moments and narratives highlighted in the exhibition continue to have resonance now. As a show about resilience, collective power, galvanising for positive change, and inspiring reaction, we hope that Resistance will stimulate discussion with our visitors and invite deeper reflection on those contemporary issues.”

Resistance is curated by Steve McQueen and Clarrie Wallis, with Emma Lewis. Political research is by Sarah Harrison. The exhibition is produced by Tessa Pierce, with assistance from Brittany Crombie. Organised by and originated at Turner Contemporary, Margate, and adapted for presentation at National Galleries Scotland: Modern Two.

A major new publication by Steve McQueen was also recently released to coincide with the exhibition. The book was compiled by Steve McQueen and edited by Clarrie Wallis and Sarah Harrison. It is published by Monument Books, a new imprint from Harper Collins.

Image credit: Paul Trevor - 1977

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

Latest Edinburgh News

Former dinner lady now leads support group for neurodivergent children at Tynecastle Park ahead of Big Hearts Day

Karen Lewis retrained from dinner lady to Pupil Support Assistant before joining Big Hearts as Project Lead for its Neuro Stars programme at Tynecastle Park.

Fort Kinnaird announces host of deals and offers

With Edinburgh schools off for February half term, families across the city will be looking for affordable ways to keep kids entertained!

Lost Shore bus route goes public, opening doors to free NEC travel

Lost Shore Surf Resort has confirmed that a regular public bus route has now been registered between the resort and Edinburgh city centre, provided by bus operator, Ember.

Edinburgh Science Festival is Going Global

With the theme of Going Global, Edinburgh Science Festival – the world's first science festival – takes over the Scottish capital between 4 and 19 April!

Sophie Ellis Bextor and Marc Almond join huge line up at Discovery Festival 2026

The full line-up for Dundee's Discovery Festival has been announced, joining the epic roster are Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Marc Almond, The Wanted 2.0 and Haircut 100!

Families urged to enjoy local art galleries, despite new research

Families are avoiding cultural outings, with a quarter feeling their children 'aren't welcome' in venues across the country.

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh celebrates Chinese New Year with a limited edition menu

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is ringing in the Chinese New Year in spectacular style, welcoming the Year of the Horse with a limited-edition menu available from 4th February - 3rd March.

Gilded Balloon announce first Edinburgh Fringe 2026 shows and welcome return to beloved Teviot Row House venue

Gilded Balloon announces its first shows on sale for the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe marking the first exciting reveal of its 2026 programme!

Flirt with film this Valentines Day

This Valentine's Day, love is all around at Everyman and you are invited to share the joy of film with your loved ones!

Big screen family fun lands at Vue this February half term

With a fantastic roster of brand-new blockbusters and familiar favourites, there's plenty for the whole family to enjoy at Vue this Scottish half term!

OMNi enters home stretch of landmark refurbishment

Edinburgh's affordable leisure and entertainment hub, OMNi has announced its centre-wide refurbishment is progressing well and is due to complete at the end of March 2026.

Aldi Scotland marks major milestone for its Scottish Sport Fund

Aldi Scotland has marked a major milestone for its Scottish Sport Fund, reaching £500,000 in donations after ten years of supporting grassroots sports clubs across the country.

Edinburgh Tradfest announces 2026 programme

Opening this year's festival at Potterrow, is multi-award winning, trad music powerhouse RURA performing tunes from their 15-year-long repertoire; and Scottish newcomers Astro Bloc!

Uncle Tiger brings a rotating line up of Asian flavours and night time energy to Bristo Place

A new restaurant opening on Edinburgh's Bristo Place this February is offering diners something a little different...

The Leddie Loves package launches this February

Whether it's a quiet getaway or a Valentine's treat, let The Leddie set the scene for a romantic getaway!

Love is in the air as the biggest wedding showcase in Scotland returns this weekend!

The ever-popular Scottish Wedding Show returns to Glasgow this Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th February, bringing together thousands of happy couples for a loved-up weekend of wedding planning fun!

Summerhall Arts announce applications for Second Annual Group Show and reveal winner of Annual Exhibition Collaboration with Edinburgh College of Art

Summerhall Arts is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Second Annual Summerhall Arts Group Show, taking place in spring 2026.

Pioneering street dance collective THREE60 take their work on tour across Scotland

This Spring, pioneering street dance collective THREE60 are taking their bold and highly energetic show World’s Evolution on tour across Scotland.

Margarita Mile set to shake up the capital

Edinburgh's top bartenders and mixologists are getting set to shake things up with the city's first 'Margarita Mile' for Margarita Month!

Forever Edinburgh partners with Civerinos to launch limited edition Local Legends pizzas for National Pizza Day

Forever Edinburgh is teaming up with Edinburgh favourite Civerinos to fire up National Pizza Day!

Top 10 family days and dining deals to enjoy in Scotland this February half term

From the World of Illusions to dazzling jellyfish lanterns, Scotland is packed with unforgettable adventures for the whole family to enjoy!

Foodies Festival returns to Edinburgh for a spectacular 21st Birthday celebration

Food lovers, music fans and families are in for a treat as Foodies Festival returns to Edinburgh for three packed days of delicious food, live music, hands-on experiences and family fun!

The Royal Yacht Britannia serves perfect blend for Queen Elizabeth II centenary

The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh has created a new Royal Tea and enhanced guided group tour experience to mark 100 years since the birth of Queen Elizabeth II in 2026.

Des Clarke brings new comedy show, Life After Des, to Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow

After more than a decade away from touring (yes, ten full years), Des Clarke is back where he belongs... under the lights, mic in hand, oversharing for your entertainment.

How to beat the crowds and save on entry at Camera Obscura this February

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions has announced extended opening hours throughout the February half term, giving visitors even more time to enjoy one of Edinburgh's most popular attractions.

Music icons take centre stage on the big screen at Vue Edinburgh this February

From legendary rock bands to modern global sensations, music fans are invited to experience an electrifying line-up of artists on the big screen at Vue Edinburgh Omni Centre.

Historic Edinburgh attraction unveils first ever immersive dining experience

This February, The Real Mary King's Close launches its longest and most ambitious experience yet - The Cape Controversy, inspired by the real secret Edinburgh Enlightenment society, the Cape Club.

Conifox Adventure Park launches Easter Festival 2026 with egg hunts, characters and family fun

Conifox Adventure Park is inviting families to celebrate Easter with a magical spring adventure as its much-loved Easter Festival returns for 2026!

Eat Out Edinburgh returns this March with new line up of restaurants including Brasserie Prince at The Balmoral

A month of exceptional dining awaits as Eat Out Edinburgh returns to the city this March, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy a month of exclusive deals and special menus!