Upcoming Exhibitions in Glasgow

Considering Glasgow is Scotland’s most populous city, it’s not surprising that the Dear Green Place is a vibrant cultural hub. The city’s many art galleries and museums host world-class exhibitions throughout the year, so no matter when you visit, you’re sure to see some memorable works of art and fantastical historical artefacts. Plan your stay with our guide to upcoming art exhibitions in Glasgow.

Must-see Exhibitions in 2023

This year’s must-see exhibitions aren’t limited to the best art galleries in Glasgow. Here are a few to include in your itinerary:

1. Gallery of Modern Art

The Gallery of Modern Art Glasgow is a paradise for lovers of contemporary art. Here are two of this year’s highlight exhibitions:

Helen de Main and Mandy McIntosh – Repeat Patterns: Until 15 October

This new exhibition of works on paper, fabric, and sculpture commissioned from Glasgow-based artists Helen de Main and Mandy McIntosh.

Domestic Bliss: An ongoing exhibition of works from Glasgow Museums’ collection reflecting on the building’s history as a former house, Royal Exchange, and civic space. Head to this art exhibition in Glasgow to see recent acquisitions by Rabiya Choudhry, James Rigler, Camara Taylor and Walter Price.

2. The Hunterian Art Gallery

The University of Glasgow’s Hunterian Art Gallery has some not-to-be-missed exhibitions lined up. Among them are:

Unravelling Times: 12 May – 15 October

This contemporary exhibition features works by pioneering experimental filmmaker Lis Rhodes. The works range from 1982’s Pictures on Pink Paper, a feminist exploration of gendered systems of value and power, to more recent works that track the social and political implications of neo-liberalism in the UK and internationally.

Chasing the Jacobite Dream: 2 June – 5 November

This exhibition reveals the gallery’s massive collection of Jacobite medals associated with Charles Edward Stuart, the 1745 Rising and the Battle of Culloden. HND 2 jewellery students from City of Glasgow College drew inspiration from the Jacobite collections to create new modern art medals for the exhibition.

3. Kelingrove Art Gallery and Museum

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum never disappoints, and this year’s line-up of exhibitions is no exception. Here are a couple to check out.

Mary Quant – Fashion Revolutionary: 20 May – 22 October

The V&A’s major retrospective of celebrated British fashion designers Dame Mary Quant comes to Kelvingrove. The exhibition focuses on the years from 1955, when Quant opened her boutique in Chelsea, through the ‘Swinging Sixties’ when Mary Quant was awarded her OBE, to 1975.

Coming Into View: Eric Watt’s Photographs of Glasgow: Until 30 July

This exhibition celebrates the work of amateur photographer Eric Watt through the mid-late 20th Century. 

Food and Drinks in Glasgow

Whether you want to fortify yourself before taking in a few exhibitions at the best art galleries in Glasgow, or you want to refresh yourself after your visit, these restaurants and cafes are superb.

The Willow Tea Rooms: A Buchanan Street institution, the Willow Tea Rooms were inspired by the works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and modelled on the Ingram Street Tea Rooms from the early 1900s. The tea rooms are renowned for serving delectable breakfasts, lunches, light snacks, afternoon tea, and cakes and scones. 97 Buchanan Street, Glasgow, G1 3HF.

An Clachan: A small independent café among the trees in Kelvingrove Park, An Clachan has a bohemian vibe and a wholesome menu of café favourites made mostly from Fairtrade and organic ingredients. Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow G3 7LH.

Kember & Jones: A deli-café, artisan bakery, and coffee roaster, Kember & Jones shines a spotlight on locally sourced produce. 134 Byres Road, West End, Glasgow, G12 8TD.

Ox and Finch: Look no further than Ox and Finch for satisfying small plates of Scottish provenance. The dry-aged beef fillet tail with peppercorn sauce is particularly good. 920 Sauchiehall St, Finnieston, Glasgow, G3 7TF.

Tips for attending Exhibitions in Glasgow

If you want to travel for the best art exhibitions in Glasgow, it’s best to visit the city anytime between May and August, with June, July, and August being particularly good months. The weather’s warmer, the days are long and sunny, and there’s not as much rain as in the cooler months.

Getting around the city is easy, thanks to the extensive public transport system. The subway is one of the easiest ways to get around the city centre, west end, and southside of Glasgow. There are 80 bus routes across the city, so getting around by bus is another option. Alternatively, you can take a cab or walk. Entry to most art exhibitions in Glasgow is free. Make your stay even more pleasurable by basing yourself in a comfortable hotel in a central location, such as Fraser Suites Glasgow.

Where to Stay in Glasgow

Located in a beautifully renovated 1850s Victorian building in Merchant City, Fraser Suites Glasgow is the ideal hotel for travellers. Contact us to book a stay that will create unforgettable memories, where you can enjoy comfortable and spacious rooms and suites, along with top class amenities like fully equipped kitchenettes, a 24-hour gym and laundry suite, a digital concierge service, and a beautiful breakfast room, all conveniently located near the best art galleries in Glasgow.