Wall-to-wall artistic talent
Higher pupils’work is at Smith
Large numbers are expected at the gala opening of Stirling’s art of the future, at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum tonight (Friday).
Higher art and design students of Stirling’s secondary schools – Balfron, Bannockburn, Dunblane, McLaren, St Modan’s, Stirling and Wallace High – will have their portfolios showcased in the main gallery, from now until January 7.
At the Stirling Smith, which has always nurtured young talent, the task of presenting the works to best advantage has fallen to collections curator Michael McGinnes.
For museum studies student Annika Thielan from the University of Leipzig, who is at the Smith on a five- month placement, it is also her first major exhibition work, and she has been on a sharp learning curve in staging the show.
Annika said: “I’m also an artist, and I know how important it is for works to be displayed well. It has been exciting, working with the creative, colourful and fresh pieces produced by these young artists.”
Michael added: “Our only regret is that none of the works are for sale. There are many highly desirable exhibits, and in the run-up to Christmas we could be selling most of them.”
The Smith’s own historic Stirling Christmas exhibition is already up and running, and whether you like old computer games or dolls and prams, you will find something of interest.
There is a full supporting events programme. See www. smithartgalleryandmuseum. co.uk. The Stirling Smith is open Tuesday-Saturday 10.30am-5pm, Sundays 2-5pm. Admission and parking free.