Noble Intentions: The History of the Scottish Modern Arts Association

Founded in Edinburgh in 1907, the Scottish Modern Arts Association set out to establish Scotland’s first ever national collection of modern art. For more than fifty years it actively acquired work by leading contemporary artists, including William McTaggart, John Duncan, S.J. Peploe, Anne Redpath and Joan Eardley. The Association displayed its growing collection nationally and internationally. It organised events to promote modern art and campaigned tirelessly for a dedicated gallery. Yet to what extent did this ambitious organisation succeed in realising its original aims? This lecture explores the little-known story of the Scottish Modern Arts Association, and examines its enduring legacy. Dr Helen Scott is Curator of Fine Art at the City Art Centre, where she specialises in 19th and 20th century Scottish art. Since joining the City Art Centre, she has curated more than twenty exhibitions including National Treasure: The Scottish Modern Arts Association in 2022. Why not make a day of it at Lauriston and have some lunch at Mimi’s café on-site after your lecture experience?