List of Scottish Artists

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"Spring," by William McTaggart. — “Spring,” by William McTaggart.

Scotland has a rich artistic heritage spanning centuries, with its artists leaving a profound mark on both national and international art. From the neoclassical sculptures of Alexander Stoddart to the evocative landscapes of Carol Rhodes, Scottish art reflects a diverse range of styles, themes, and innovations. This collection celebrates the achievements of Scotland’s most notable artists, exploring their creative legacies and their enduring impact on the world of art.

Born before 1700

John Alexander (died 1733)
A painter and engraver, Alexander specialized in portraits and was known for his detailed work. He contributed significantly to early Scottish art, blending European influences with local traditions. His works are prized for their precision and historical value.
Arnold Bronckhorst (fl. 1565–1583)
A Dutch painter, Bronckhorst was the first King’s Painter of Scotland, serving under James VI. His portraits often reflect a blend of Dutch realism and Scottish regal imagery. Few of his works survive, but they highlight his importance in Scottish court art.
William Gouw Ferguson (1632/3 – c. 1689)
Ferguson was a still-life painter who gained recognition in France and Italy. His works often depict detailed arrangements of objects, showcasing his mastery of texture and light. He is one of the earliest Scottish artists to achieve fame abroad.
Gawen Hamilton (1698–1737)
Hamilton was a portrait painter who primarily worked in London, capturing the likenesses of British nobility. His works are notable for their refined elegance and attention to detail. He bridged the gap between Scottish and English artistic traditions.
George Heriot (1563–1624)
Known as a goldsmith and jeweler, Heriot was also a significant patron of the arts. His craftsmanship earned him the position of jeweler to King James VI and I. The legacy of his wealth and influence is seen in Heriot’s Hospital, which became a model school.
George Jamesone (c. 1587–1644)
Often called Scotland’s first eminent portrait painter, Jamesone was known for his realistic depictions of Scottish nobility. His style was influenced by the Dutch Golden Age, showcasing detailed brushwork and a keen sense of character. Many of his portraits are preserved in Scottish collections.
David Paton (active 1660–1700)
A painter of miniatures, Paton’s delicate and intricate works captured the subtleties of his subjects. His contributions to Scottish art helped preserve the tradition of miniature painting. His works are rare and highly valued for their craftsmanship.
François Quesnel (c. 1543–1619)
Born in Scotland but active in France, Quesnel became a prominent painter at the French court. His portraits reflect a sophisticated Renaissance style, blending Scottish and French influences. He was instrumental in shaping courtly portraiture of his era.
John Michael Wright (1617–1694)
A Baroque portrait painter, Wright is celebrated for his dramatic compositions and vibrant use of color. He was one of the few Scottish artists to achieve international fame during his lifetime. His works remain iconic examples of 17th-century portraiture.

Born 1700–1799

Cosmo Alexander (c. 1724–1772)
A noted portrait painter, Alexander worked extensively in North America, capturing the likenesses of early colonial figures. His classical style reflects his training in Europe, blending elegance with simplicity. His works are an important record of 18th-century transatlantic connections.
David Allan (1744–1796)
Known as the “Scottish Hogarth,” Allan specialized in historical and genre scenes. His works often depict Scottish rural life with humor and attention to detail. His painting The Origin of Painting is among his most famous and reflects his narrative style.
Andrew Bell (1726–1809)
Bell was an engraver and co-founder of the Encyclopædia Britannica. His detailed engravings brought scientific and literary subjects to life. His work significantly contributed to the dissemination of knowledge during the Enlightenment.
John Zephaniah Bell (1794–1883)
A versatile painter, Bell worked across portraiture, landscapes, and historical themes. He was also involved in decorative art, contributing to the design of public spaces. His long career left a diverse artistic legacy.
John Brown (1752–1787)
Brown focused on religious and allegorical subjects, often imbuing his works with dramatic intensity. His paintings reflect the neoclassical style popular in his time. Despite his short life, he influenced other Scottish artists of his era.
Thomas Campbell (1790–1858)
A sculptor known for his monumental works, Campbell created public statues that celebrate Scottish history. His attention to detail and dynamic compositions earned him wide acclaim. Many of his sculptures remain prominent landmarks.
Alexander Carse (c. 1770–1843)
Carse is remembered for his scenes of Scottish life, often depicting humorous and lively gatherings. His works provide valuable insight into 18th-century social customs. His paintings combine genre storytelling with fine detail.
Robert Edmonstone (1794–1834)
Edmonstone was a portrait and genre painter whose works often depicted intimate moments. His style reflects a sensitivity to light and shadow, adding depth to his compositions. He was an important figure in early 19th-century Scottish art.
Robert Freebairn (1765–1808)
A landscape painter, Freebairn’s works often featured dramatic natural scenes. His travels in Europe influenced his approach, blending Romanticism with topographical accuracy. He contributed to the growing popularity of landscape art in Scotland.
Andrew Geddes (1783–1844)
Geddes was a portrait painter and etcher, admired for his skill in capturing the personality of his sitters. His works often exhibit a warm color palette and fine attention to detail. He was also a close friend of the famous artist J.M.W. Turner.
John Watson Gordon (1788–1864)
A prominent portrait painter, Gordon was appointed Principal Painter in Ordinary to Queen Victoria in Scotland. His works capture the grandeur and dignity of his subjects. He played a key role in establishing portraiture as a major art form in Scotland.
Gavin Hamilton (1723–1798)
Hamilton was a neoclassical history painter whose works often depicted scenes from ancient Rome. He also worked as an art dealer and archaeologist, helping to promote classical antiquity. His paintings influenced the neoclassical movement across Europe.
David Ramsay Hay (1798–1866)
Hay was an artist, interior decorator, and influential color theorist. His writings on color harmony were widely read and influenced Victorian design. His artistic work extended to frescoes, murals, and decorative art.
Andrew Henderson (1783–1835)
Henderson specialized in portraiture, capturing the likenesses of notable Scots of his time. His works reflect a refined and elegant style. He also contributed to early art education in Scotland.
John Kay (1742–1826)
Kay was a caricaturist and engraver known for his satirical depictions of Edinburgh society. His portraits often include humorous and insightful commentary on his subjects. His works are valuable records of 18th-century Scottish life.
William Home Lizars (1788–1859)
Lizars was a painter and engraver who excelled in natural history illustrations. His works are notable for their scientific accuracy and artistic quality. He also contributed to book illustration, collaborating with figures like John James Audubon.
William Miller (1796–1882)
Miller was a skilled engraver whose works brought the paintings of Turner and other artists to a wider audience. His engravings are celebrated for their detail and atmospheric effects. He played a significant role in the popularization of Romantic art.
Jacob More (1740–1793)
More was a landscape painter whose works often depicted the sublime beauty of Scottish scenery. His depictions of waterfalls and dramatic landscapes were highly sought after. He was also active in Italy, where he painted classical ruins.
William Mossman (1793–1851)
A sculptor, Mossman is best known for his public monuments and architectural sculptures. His works often feature intricate details and historical themes. He contributed to the neoclassical movement in Scottish sculpture.
Alexander Nasmyth (1758–1840)
Often called the “father of Scottish landscape painting,” Nasmyth created works that celebrate the beauty of Scotland’s natural scenery. He was also an architect and inventor, blending art with engineering. His works reflect a Romantic vision of nature.
Patrick Nasmyth (1787–1831)
Patrick, the son of Alexander Nasmyth, specialized in landscapes inspired by the Dutch Golden Age. His works often depict rustic scenes with meticulous detail. Despite his short life, he left a lasting impression on Scottish art.
Jane Nasmyth (1788–1867)
Jane, another of Alexander Nasmyth’s children, was a talented landscape painter. Her works often reflect a similar Romantic style to her father’s, with a focus on natural beauty. She contributed to the artistic legacy of the Nasmyth family.
Barbara Nasmyth (1790–1870)
Barbara, a daughter of Alexander Nasmyth, was also a skilled landscape painter. Her works often depicted serene rural scenes. Like her siblings, she carried on her father’s artistic traditions.
Anne Nasmyth (1798–1874)
Anne, the youngest of the Nasmyth sisters, was a talented artist in her own right. Her paintings often focused on pastoral landscapes and natural beauty. She played a key role in maintaining the Nasmyth family’s artistic reputation.
Henry Raeburn (1756–1823)
Raeburn was one of Scotland’s most celebrated portrait painters, known for his grand yet intimate depictions of his subjects. His works often feature striking lighting and natural poses, capturing the individuality of his sitters. As a key figure in Scottish art, he was knighted by King George IV.
Allan Ramsay (1713–1784)
Ramsay was a prominent portrait painter known for his refined and elegant style, often painting members of British and European royalty. He served as Principal Painter in Ordinary to King George III. His works reflect the ideals of the Enlightenment, combining intellect and beauty.
David Roberts (1796–1864)
Roberts was a painter and lithographer, best known for his detailed depictions of architecture and landscapes in the Middle East and Europe. His works contributed to a greater understanding of these regions during his time. He was also a founding member of the Royal Scottish Academy.
Alexander Robertson (1772–1841)
A painter and one of three artistic brothers, Robertson was known for his landscapes and portraits. He worked in both Scotland and the United States, where he co-founded the American Academy of the Fine Arts. His works often reflect a blend of neoclassical and Romantic influences.
Andrew Robertson (1777–1845)
Robertson was a miniaturist painter, celebrated for his delicate portraits. His works often featured aristocratic subjects and were highly sought after in both Britain and America. He contributed to the popularity of miniature painting during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Archibald Robertson (1765–1835)
Another of the Robertson brothers, Archibald worked as a portrait painter and educator in America. He was instrumental in establishing formal art instruction in New York. His portraits are notable for their clarity and precision.
Alexander Runciman (1736–1785)
Runciman was a painter of historical and mythical subjects, known for his dramatic compositions. His works often drew on themes from classical literature and Scottish history. He was a significant figure in the development of Romantic art in Scotland.
John Runciman (1744–1768/9)
The younger brother of Alexander, John was a painter who specialized in Biblical and literary scenes. Despite his short life, his works are remarkable for their emotional intensity. His small but impactful output left a lasting impression on Scottish art.
Patrick Syme (1774–1845)
Syme was a flower-painter and a color theorist, contributing to botanical illustration and scientific study. He is best known for his Practical Treatise on Flower Painting. His works combine artistic beauty with scientific accuracy.
Archibald Skirving (1749–1819)
Skirving was a portrait painter whose works are admired for their simplicity and elegance. His pastel portraits often capture the character of his sitters with great sensitivity. He is considered one of Scotland’s finest 18th-century portrait artists.
Reverend John Thomson (1778–1840)
Thomson was a landscape painter and minister of Duddingston Kirk, blending art and spirituality in his life. His works often depict the Scottish countryside with a poetic touch. He was a mentor to several younger artists, including Sir Walter Scott’s illustrator.
William John Thomson RSA (1771–1845)
Thomson was a portrait and miniaturist painter, known for his refined style and attention to detail. He worked extensively in Scotland and England, gaining recognition for his portraits of prominent figures. His miniatures are particularly admired for their subtle use of color.
George Watson (1767–1837)
Watson was a portrait painter and the first president of the Royal Scottish Academy. His works often reflect the neoclassical ideals of his time, with a focus on simplicity and dignity. He played a crucial role in promoting Scottish art.
David Wilkie (1785–1841)
Wilkie was a painter of genre scenes and portraits, known for his ability to capture everyday life with humor and warmth. His works often feature intricate detail and narrative depth. He was appointed Principal Painter in Ordinary to King William IV and Queen Victoria.
Hugh William Williams (1773–1829)
Known as “Grecian Williams,” he specialized in landscapes of Greece and Italy, contributing to the Romantic fascination with classical antiquity. His works often combine topographical accuracy with atmospheric effects. He was also a skilled watercolorist.
William Yellowlees (1796–1855)
Yellowlees was a portrait painter noted for his delicate and refined style. His works often feature soft lighting and a focus on the sitter’s expression. He was particularly skilled at capturing the personalities of his subjects.

Born 1800–1899

John Brown Abercromby (1843–1929)
Abercromby painted a wide range of subjects, from traditional portraits to avant-garde modernist themes. His ability to adapt to changing styles reflects his artistic versatility. He is regarded as an important figure in 19th-century Scottish art.
Patrick Adam (1852–1929)
Adam was a painter known for his impressionistic landscapes and interiors. His works often feature warm light and vibrant color palettes. He was a member of the Society of Scottish Artists and exhibited widely.
Robert Adamson (1821–1848)
A pioneering photographer, Adamson partnered with David Octavius Hill to create some of the earliest examples of photographic portraiture. Their collaboration produced over 3000 calotypes, capturing Scottish life and architecture. His work remains a cornerstone of early photography.
John Macdonald Aiken (1880–1961)
Aiken was a talented water-colorist and oil painter, known for his evocative landscapes. His works often reflect the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. He exhibited widely and contributed to the development of modern Scottish art.
Lena Alexander (1899–1983)
Alexander was a painter specializing in portraits and floral studies. Her works are characterized by their vibrant color and attention to detail. She was active in promoting Scottish art during the early 20th century.
Jessie Algie (1859–1927)
Algie was a flower painter whose delicate and detailed works celebrate the beauty of nature. Her watercolors often feature intricate compositions. She contributed to the tradition of botanical art in Scotland.
Andrew Allan (1863–1942)
Allan was a lithographer known for his detailed and precise prints. His works often depicted industrial and architectural subjects. He played an important role in the development of graphic art in Scotland.
Robert Weir Allan (1851–1942)
A landscape and marine painter, Allan’s works often depict serene and atmospheric scenes. He was a master of both watercolors and oils. His ability to capture light and mood made him a sought-after artist.

Marion Ancrum (fl. 1885–1919)
Ancrum was a water-colorist whose works often depicted delicate floral studies and rural scenes. She was known for her precise technique and use of light. Her art contributed to the popularity of watercolor painting in late 19th-century Scotland.
Hazel Armour (1894–1985)
Armour was a sculptor and medallist who worked on both public monuments and private commissions. Her works often incorporated traditional and classical elements. She is remembered for her contributions to Scottish sculpture.
James Arroll (1862–1936)
Arroll was a painter known for his expressive portraits and landscapes. His use of bold colors and dynamic compositions set his work apart. He exhibited extensively in Scotland and England.
George Bain (1881–1968)
Bain was an art teacher and writer who revived interest in Celtic and Insular art. His designs often incorporated intricate patterns and motifs inspired by ancient Scottish traditions. His work influenced modern interpretations of Celtic art.
James Ballantine (1806–1877)
Ballantine was a stained-glass artist and author, whose designs can still be seen in churches across Scotland. He was also a poet, and his writings reflected his appreciation of Scottish culture. His stained glass helped revive interest in the craft during the 19th century.
Penelope Beaton (1886–1963)
Beaton was a painter whose works often featured landscapes and still lifes. Her use of color and attention to detail were hallmarks of her style. She was active in the Scottish art scene throughout her career.
Jemima Blackburn (1823–1909)
Blackburn was a painter and illustrator known for her depictions of rural life and wildlife. Her works often featured detailed studies of birds and animals. She was also an accomplished watercolorist and a significant figure in Victorian art.
John Blair (c. 1849–1934)
Blair was a painter whose works often focused on pastoral landscapes and Scottish rural scenes. His art captured the beauty of everyday life in the countryside. He exhibited frequently in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Muirhead Bone (1876–1953)
Bone was an etcher and draughtsman, best known for his intricate architectural and industrial scenes. His works often reflected the changing landscapes of early 20th-century Scotland. He was also an official war artist during World War I.
Phyllis Bone (1894–1972)
Bone was a sculptor specializing in animal subjects, often combining realism with a sense of character. She was one of the first women elected to the Royal Scottish Academy. Her public sculptures can be found across Scotland.
William Bonnar (1800–1863)
Bonnar was a portraitist and history painter, known for his detailed and dramatic compositions. His works often depicted significant events in Scottish history. He contributed to the growth of narrative art in Scotland.
William Brodie (1815–1881)
Brodie was a sculptor who created numerous public monuments and busts. His works often featured prominent figures of Scottish history and culture. His statue of Greyfriars Bobby in Edinburgh remains a beloved landmark.
Robert Brough (1872–1905)
Brough was a painter whose works combined Impressionist techniques with traditional portraiture. His dynamic use of color and texture made his art distinctive. Despite his untimely death, he left a significant legacy in Scottish art.
John Crawford Brown (1805–1867)
Brown was a landscape artist whose works often depicted the Scottish Highlands and coastal scenes. His paintings are noted for their atmospheric quality and attention to natural detail. He was an important figure in the Romantic landscape movement.
William Kellock Brown (1856–1934)
Brown was a sculptor who created public works, including war memorials and statues. His works often reflect a strong sense of narrative and historical accuracy. He contributed to the development of Scottish neoclassical sculpture.
Elizabeth York Brunton (1880 – c. 1960)
Brunton was a painter known for her vibrant depictions of landscapes and floral subjects. Her works often feature bold colors and a sense of movement. She exhibited widely and was active in the early 20th-century Scottish art scene.
Robert Bryden (1865–1939)
Bryden was an artist, sculptor, and engraver known for his detailed portraits and commemorative works. His sculptures often celebrate Scottish history and culture. He also created intricate wood engravings.
Thomas Stuart Burnett (1853–1888)
Burnett was a sculptor who specialized in portrait busts and memorials. His works often display a classical elegance combined with expressive realism. His contributions to Scottish sculpture were significant despite his short life.
Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell (1883–1937)
Cadell was a member of the Scottish Colourists, known for his bold use of color and light. His works often depicted elegant interiors, landscapes, and still lifes. He remains one of the most celebrated modern Scottish painters.
James Cadenhead (1858–1927)
Cadenhead was a painter and illustrator who often depicted landscapes and rural life. His works combine traditional techniques with a modern sensibility. He was also a founding member of the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour.

Born 1900–1949

David Annand (born 1948)
Annand is a sculptor specializing in public art, often creating pieces that reflect local culture and history. His works are celebrated for their elegance and connection to community life. Many of his sculptures can be found in cities across Scotland.
Gordon Robert Archibald (1905–1980)
Archibald was a painter known for his landscapes and rural scenes. His works often feature a subtle interplay of light and shadow. He contributed to the development of modern Scottish landscape painting.
Eric Auld (1931–2013)
Auld was a painter whose works primarily focused on Aberdeen and its surroundings. His cityscapes and rural scenes capture the character and atmosphere of the region. He was highly regarded for his contributions to Scottish art.
Robert Bain (1911–1973)
Bain was a sculptor and art professor who made significant contributions while working in South Africa. His works often explored themes of movement and expression. He also played a key role in mentoring young artists.
Edward Baird (1904–1949)
Baird was a painter known for his realist style and meticulously detailed works. His paintings often depict everyday life in Scotland with a sense of quiet dignity. He was part of the Scottish Renaissance movement.
Barbara Balmer (1929–2017)
Balmer was a painter whose works often feature narrative elements and vivid use of color. Her style reflects a combination of abstraction and figurative art. She was widely exhibited and respected within the Scottish art scene.
Mardi Barrie (1930–2004)
Barrie was a painter celebrated for her expressive use of color and abstract compositions. Her works often depict landscapes and urban scenes. She was a prominent figure in Scottish modern art.
John Bellany (1942–2013)
Bellany was one of Scotland’s most renowned painters, known for his powerful and emotional works. His paintings often reflect themes of mortality, family, and Scottish fishing culture. His bold, expressive style made him a leading figure in contemporary art.
Helen Biggar (1909–1953)
Biggar was a sculptor, filmmaker, and theatre designer. Her works often combined social commentary with artistic innovation. She was an influential figure in the Scottish art scene during her lifetime.
Douglas Robertson Bisset (1908–2000)
Bisset was a sculptor whose works often explored themes of nature and human form. He created numerous public sculptures and monuments. His art reflects a modern approach to traditional subjects.
Sam Black (1913–1997)
Black was a painter and educator whose works often focused on landscapes and architectural scenes. He exhibited widely and was an influential teacher. His contributions to Scottish art extended to both practice and education.
Robert Henderson Blyth (1919–1970)
Blyth was a painter and printmaker known for his evocative landscapes and figurative works. His art often reflects a strong sense of place and mood. He was a significant contributor to mid-20th-century Scottish art.
Leonard Boden (1911–1999)
Boden was a portrait painter renowned for his detailed depictions of notable figures, including members of the British royal family. His works are characterized by their precision and elegance. He was one of the most sought-after portraitists of his time.
Margaret Boden (1912–2001)
Boden was a painter whose works often depicted landscapes and still lifes with a modernist touch. Her use of light and composition reflects her innovative approach. She was highly regarded in the Scottish art community.
John Boyd (1925–2018)
Boyd was a milliner and artist whose creative designs influenced the world of fashion and art. He was known for his attention to detail and innovative use of materials. His contributions left a lasting impact on both fields.
Mary Syme Boyd (1910–1997)
Boyd was a sculptor and artist known for her animal studies and public works. Her sculptures often reflected a deep understanding of movement and anatomy. She was a respected figure in 20th-century Scottish art.
Jimmy Boyle (born 1944)
Boyle is a sculptor, author, and former convicted murderer who turned his life around through art. His sculptures often explore themes of redemption and human emotion. He is a powerful example of the transformative power of art.
Mark Boyle (1934–2005)
Boyle was an innovative artist known for his multimedia works and collaborations with his family. His “Earth Pieces” series brought attention to natural and urban environments. He was a key figure in experimental art in Scotland.
Howard Butterworth
Butterworth is a painter whose works often depict the landscapes of Aberdeenshire with vibrant colors and textures. His art captures the beauty of rural Scotland. He has been active in the Scottish art scene since the 1960s.
John Byrne (born 1940)
Byrne is a painter, playwright, and designer known for his bold and distinctive style. His works often feature surreal and whimsical elements, reflecting his multifaceted creativity. He is one of Scotland’s most celebrated contemporary artists.

Born 1950–1999

Crawfurd Adamson (born 1953)
Adamson is a figurative artist whose works often explore human relationships and emotions. His expressive use of color and texture has earned him international recognition. His art is included in major collections worldwide.
Charles Avery (born 1973)
Avery is a conceptual artist known for his ongoing project “The Islanders,” which explores a fictional world. His works combine drawing, sculpture, and text to create immersive narratives. He is one of Scotland’s leading contemporary artists.
David Batchelor (born 1955)
Batchelor is a visual artist known for his vibrant installations and sculptures that explore color and urban environments. His works often use industrial materials to create striking compositions. He is internationally recognized for his innovative approach to color.
Karla Black (born 1972)
Black is a sculptor who creates large-scale installations using unconventional materials like soap, chalk, and powdered paint. Her works often explore themes of fragility and impermanence. She was nominated for the Turner Prize in 2011.
Martin Boyce (born 1967)
Boyce is a sculptor whose works often incorporate architectural and design elements. His installations explore themes of modernity and memory. He won the Turner Prize in 2011 for his innovative art.
Hugh Buchanan (born 1958)
Buchanan is a watercolorist whose works often depict architectural interiors and historical subjects. His use of light and precision creates a sense of timelessness. He is highly regarded for his contributions to watercolor painting.
Roderick Buchanan (born 1965)
Buchanan is an artist working in film and photography, often exploring themes of identity and community. His works often reflect a documentary style, blending personal and political narratives. He has exhibited widely in the UK and beyond.
Stephen Conroy (born 1964)
Conroy is a figurative painter known for his dramatic and introspective portraits. His works often explore themes of identity and emotion. He is one of the most acclaimed Scottish painters of his generation.
Ken Currie (born 1960)
Currie is a painter and member of the New Glasgow Boys, known for his dark and haunting works. His art often reflects on themes of mortality, history, and social issues. He is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s leading contemporary artists.
Peter Howson (born 1958)
Howson is a painter whose works often depict powerful, muscular figures in dramatic settings. His art explores themes of conflict, faith, and redemption. He served as an official war artist during the Bosnian War.

Helen Denerley (born 1956)
Denerley is a sculptor known for her innovative use of scrap metal to create animal sculptures. Her works are celebrated for their dynamic forms and imaginative reinterpretation of materials. Her pieces are often displayed in public spaces across Scotland.
Alan Dimmick (born 1956)
Dimmick is a photographer who has documented the Scottish art scene for decades. His black-and-white photographs capture candid moments and have become a visual archive of Scotland’s cultural history. He is widely respected for his contribution to contemporary photography.
Helen Douglas (born 1952)
Douglas is a book artist whose works combine photography, printmaking, and storytelling. Her handcrafted books often explore themes of nature and personal reflection. She is a pioneer in the field of artist books.
Kate Downie (born 1958)
Downie is a painter and printmaker known for her landscapes and urban scenes. Her works often blend abstraction with detailed observation. She is one of Scotland’s most prominent contemporary artists, with exhibitions both nationally and internationally.
Erica Eyres (born 1980)
Eyres is a Canadian-born artist working in Scotland, known for her videos, sculptures, and drawings. Her work often explores themes of identity and absurdity with a dark sense of humor. She is widely exhibited and respected in the contemporary art world.
Lizzie Farey (born 1962)
Farey is a willow sculptor whose works often incorporate organic shapes and patterns. Inspired by nature, her art celebrates the beauty of craftsmanship and natural materials. Her pieces are exhibited internationally and are highly regarded in the field of contemporary sculpture.
Michael Fullerton (born 1971)
Fullerton is a portrait painter whose works often address themes of power, politics, and history. His classical painting techniques are juxtaposed with modern and provocative subject matter. He is a key figure in contemporary Scottish painting.
Anya Gallaccio (born 1963)
Gallaccio is known for her minimalist installations that often use organic materials like flowers, fruit, and ice. Her works explore themes of impermanence and transformation. She was nominated for the Turner Prize in 2003 and has exhibited worldwide.
Douglas Gordon (born 1966)
Gordon is a conceptual artist whose works often involve video installations and photography. He explores themes of memory, identity, and time, with works like 24 Hour Psycho. He won the Turner Prize in 1996 and is internationally acclaimed.
Andrew Grassie (born 1966)
Grassie is a painter who specializes in highly detailed tempera paintings that mimic photographs. His works often explore themes of perception and the art world itself. His meticulous technique has earned him recognition in contemporary art.
Claire Harrigan (born 1964)
Harrigan is a painter whose vibrant, abstract works often depict landscapes and interiors. Her use of bold colors and dynamic compositions make her work stand out. She is widely exhibited and celebrated for her contributions to Scottish art.
Peter Howson (born 1958)
Howson is known for his figurative paintings that often depict raw, emotional subjects. His works explore themes of conflict, addiction, and redemption. He is one of Scotland’s most significant contemporary painters and served as an official war artist during the Bosnian War.
Christopher Jenkinson (born 1979)
Jenkinson is a photorealist painter known for his precise and highly detailed works. His subjects often include urban scenes and portraits, blending realism with a sense of atmosphere. He is recognized as a leading figure in modern Scottish art.
Richard Johnson (born 1966)
Johnson is a war artist who documents conflicts through evocative drawings and paintings. His works often combine journalistic precision with artistic expression. He has covered major global conflicts and exhibited internationally.
Anna King (born 1984)
King is a painter whose works focus on abandoned buildings and landscapes. Her muted color palette and evocative style capture the beauty of decay and isolation. She is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s rising stars in contemporary art.
Henry Kondracki (born 1953)
Kondracki is a painter known for his vibrant urban scenes and atmospheric landscapes. His works often capture the mood and energy of Scottish cities. He has exhibited extensively and is celebrated for his unique perspective on urban life.
David Mach (born 1956)
Mach is a sculptor and installation artist known for his large-scale works made from unconventional materials such as matchsticks and coat hangers. His pieces often explore themes of consumerism and popular culture. He has exhibited internationally and remains a major figure in contemporary sculpture.
John McKenna (born 1964)
McKenna is a public artist and sculptor specializing in statues and monuments. His works often celebrate historical and cultural figures, blending traditional and contemporary techniques. He is a leading figure in large-scale public art in Scotland.
Abigail McLellan (1969–2009)
McLellan was a painter known for her bold, simplified forms and vibrant use of color. Her works often depict still lifes and landscapes with a modern aesthetic. Despite her early death, her art continues to influence contemporary Scottish painting.
Susan Philipsz OBE (born 1965)
Philipsz is a sound installation artist whose works explore themes of memory, place, and emotion. Her pieces often involve recordings of her own singing, creating immersive experiences for viewers. She won the Turner Prize in 2010, becoming the first sound artist to do so.
Andy Scott (born 1964)
Scott is a figurative sculptor known for large-scale works such as The Kelpies, a pair of horse-head sculptures in Falkirk. His works often celebrate Scottish heritage and culture. He is one of Scotland’s most prominent contemporary sculptors.
Lucy Skaer (born 1975)
Skaer is a sculptor and painter whose works often explore themes of abstraction and materiality. Her installations combine traditional craft with modern concepts. She was shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 2009 and is internationally exhibited.
Carol Rhodes (1959–2018)
Rhodes was a painter known for her aerial perspectives of industrial and natural landscapes. Her works often explore the relationship between human development and the environment. She is celebrated for her unique vision and contribution to Scottish art.
Evlynn Smith (1962–2003)
Smith was an artist, designer, and furniture maker known for her innovative and multidisciplinary approach. Her works often combined functionality with artistic expression. She left a significant legacy despite her early passing.
Alexander Stoddart (born 1959)
Stoddart is a neoclassical sculptor known for his monumental public statues and busts. His works often depict historical and literary figures with classical elegance. He is recognized as one of Scotland’s leading sculptors.
Jack Vettriano (born 1951)
Vettriano is one of Scotland’s most famous contemporary painters, known for his narrative-driven works that often evoke mystery and romance. His paintings, such as The Singing Butler, are popular worldwide. He is both celebrated and controversial for his commercial success.
Alison Watt (born 1965)
Watt is a painter known for her abstract works that often focus on fabric and drapery. Her meticulous technique and subtle use of light create a sense of intimacy and contemplation. She is one of Scotland’s most respected contemporary artists.