Jean F. Watson: An Artistic Legacy


The legacy of Edinburgh artist Jean F. Watson is explored in a new free exhibition at the City Art Centre.

Painting of man standing at the top of a hill, with a view of a castle in the distance.
William Bell Scott, Edinburgh from Salisbury Crags, c.1838. The City of Edinburgh Council. (Photo: Antonia Reeve)
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Venue Key Features

Hearing Loop

Level Access

Venue Accessibility

Accessible parking or drop-off point

Accessible toilets

Hearing Loop

Large print, braille or audio

Level Access

Level access from entrance to reception

Level access to all public areas

Level access to dining room, cafe or restaurant

Level access to main entrance

Lift or stairlift

Suitable for visitors with limited mobility

Tactile route for visitors with visual impairments

Wheelchair access throughout

Wheelchairs or mobility aids provided

Jean Fletcher Watson (1877-1974) was an Edinburgh resident who had a significant impact on the city’s cultural heritage. During the 1960s and 1970s she presented a series of financial donations to the City of Edinburgh to develop a collection of Scottish art. Since then, the Jean F. Watson Bequest Fund has enabled the acquisition of more than 1,000 artworks.

This new exhibition celebrates Watson’s vision and generosity, showcasing a selection of historic and contemporary artworks from the collection. Visitors will be able to see works from numerous artists including William Fettes Douglas PPRSA, Arthur Melville ARSA, Charles Hodge Mackie RSA, JD Fergusson, Anne Redpath RSA, Joan Eardley RSA, Eduardo Paolozzi and Elizabeth Blackadder RSA.

Running from 16 May to 04 Oct 2026 at the City Art Centre on Market Street, Jean F. Watson: An Artistic Legacy is free to attend.