Keeping art alive for all

The National Galleries of Scotland care for, develop, research, and display the nation’s world-class collection of Scottish and international art. With a lively and innovative programme of exhibitions, learning events, and outreach activities, the Galleries aim to engage, inform, and inspire people all over Scotland and beyond.

Funding from the players of People’s Postcode Lottery supports an incredible range of activity across the Galleries’ four sites in Edinburgh: the Scottish National Gallery, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One and Two. From tours for schools, to supported visits for individuals living with dementia, plus a busy timetable of popular exhibitions and events: the Galleries offer something for everyone.

When the pandemic forced cultural organisations to close, the Galleries had to respond quickly by finding new ways to deliver for their visitors. The continued support of People’s Postcode Lottery enabled the Galleries to develop an engaging range of online content to reach people in the most challenging times.

In a year of unprecedented change for everyone, player support allowed the Galleries to:

• Focus on online activities to help people harness the power of art and creativity to support their health and wellbeing
• Deliver an award-winning learning project that inspired families to get creative at home
• Present a landmark virtual exhibition experience celebrating the life and work of the legendary filmmaker Ray Harryhausen

When the time came to reopen, players’ support also ensured that the real-life Ray Harryhausen exhibition could be delivered to the highest levels of safety for visitors. What’s more, support allowed the Galleries to build the Creature Feature play area on the grounds of Modern One, which was a huge hit with children and families throughout the summer of 2021.

Feedback from visitors:

"It is just so wonderful to be back in a gallery, I have missed it so much. Thank you for all you have done to make the experience so safe and enjoyable – I’ll be back soon!"

"Really appreciate everything you are doing. I didn’t realise before lockdown how calming and important creativity was."

Players have raised £3.8 million for the National Galleries of Scotland.