An insight into modern art

A lecture taking place at the Smith Art Gallery and Museum next week sets out to enlighten people about modern art.

Emma Gillespie, assistant curator at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, will provide behind the scenes insights into how artworks from a huge and ever-growing collection can be exhibited and explained to the public.

She has performed a number of roles at the National Galleries of Scotland since 2014. She holds a degree in Art History from the University of St Andrews and her curatorial work includes the major exhibition New Arrivals, which featured over 100 works of art.

While any discussion of modern art provokes a range of responses, from enthusiastic debates about the creative process to a level of puzzlement, the latest Stirling Smith talk promises to be an eye-opener.

Illustrated with slides, it will cover a wide range of media and styles, and more than 100 years of creativity.

“Modern art is not just one thing. It’s very diverse,”said Caroline Mathers, director of the Smith Art Gallery and Museum.

“Having Emma here to explore the subject with us will be a great route in for many people.

“We’re looking forward to hearing her stories about working with such a broad range of art, from famous works to the less well-known.”

The lecture takes place on Wednesday May 31 at the Smith, starting at 7.30pm, with doors opening at 7pm. Admission is by cash at the door and costs £5 for adults, £4 for members of the Friends and £2 for students, on production of a valid student ID card. Admission includes tea or coffee and biscuits afterwards.