The University of Stirling’s internationally acclaimed Art Collection has been named a Collection of National Significance by Museums Galleries Scotland.
The prestigious accolade celebrates Stirling’s renowned collection of more than 800 prints, paintings and sculptures and other artworks, and the University’s ethos of embedding art into everyday life on campus.
Stirling joins four other Collections of National Significance announced today, International Museums Day, bringing the total in Scotland to 56. National Significance status recognises the importance of a collection beyond those held in a national gallery or museum.
Cornerstone
Art, and the belief that it should be accessible to all, has been a cornerstone of the University of Stirling since it opened its doors in 1967. Then Principal and art lover Dr Tom Cottrell decreed that 1% of the cost of each new building be earmarked for art to decorate it.
The Art Collection, most of which is held in and around the iconic, A-listed mid-century building Pathfoot, already has museum status and is fully accredited by Museums Galleries Scotland.
The Art Collection has grown through purchases and donations of paintings, sculptures and prints. Notable among them have been 14 works by Scottish Colourist J.D. Fergusson, which were gifted to the University by the artist’s lifelong partner Margaret Morris in 1968. Scottish contemporary artworks include additions by David Shrigley, Will Maclean and Alison Watt.
The team behind the Art Collection holds regular exhibitions, workshops and tours, works with students on art-related projects, and runs an Artist in Residence programme, all of which are designed to incorporate and reflect the University of Stirling’s pioneering research.
Unforgettable experience
Sarah Bromage, Head of Collections at the University of Stirling, said: “We are delighted that the University of Stirling has been recognised as having a Collection of National Significance. Our focus is to make art and culture a part of everyday life for staff, students and visitors, enabling exchanges between art, research and teaching.
“We do this through an active programme of exhibitions and events that improves access to our art and inspires people to engage with it.”
Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, the University’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “It is a proud moment for all of us at Stirling to see the Art Collection honoured in this way, and our thanks go to Museums Galleries Scotland for this recognition. It is a privilege to have art on our doorstep and integrated into our daily lives, our teaching and our research. It creates a unique environment for staff and students, and an unforgettable experience for visitors.”
Valuable reminder
Lucy Casot, Chief Executive Officer of Museums Galleries Scotland, said: “Congratulations to the University of Stirling. Scotland’s Recognised Collections of National Significance are a valuable reminder of the breadth and quality of what our museums and galleries have to offer. This achievement and status helps the University further their work to conserve their collection and also share them and the stories they tell with their communities and wider audiences.”
The gallery is open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, in the Pathfoot Building. Further information about the Collection can be found at www.artcol.stir.ac.uk