Taking place in Edinburgh’s Royal Scottish Academy, visitors will be able to enjoy a selection of over 30 watercolours that have never been seen before in Scotland, in an exchange with the National Gallery of Ireland.
This much-loved annual tradition that has been taking place since 1901 when art collector Henry Vaughan left over 200 drawings, watercolours and prints by Turner divided between galleries in Edinburgh, Dublin and London. 38 of these watercolours were given to the people of Scotland, on the condition that they are only displayed in the month of January, when light levels are at their lowest. Because of this, these works still possess a freshness and an intensity of colour, almost 200 years since they were created.
For 2025, exhibitions will see Ireland’s Vaughan Bequest make a special trip to the National Galleries of Scotland, while Scotland’s Vaughan Bequest will go on display at the National Gallery of Ireland.
Viewers will be able to enjoy around 30 watercolours featuring sweeping seascapes, dramatic landscapes and spectacular cities.
This mesmerising exhibition captures the essence of the life and career of the 19th century artist, with the works on display covering the breadth of Turner’s artistic talents. In a career spanning 50 years, Turner developed new ways of painting in watercolour and revolutionised ideas of portraying the beauty of the natural world. Using an array of techniques and colour, he created works which continue to captivate and excite audiences today.
Please note, due to the exhibition’s popularity, visitors can expect to wait for between 30 minutes to an hour before gaining entry. Seating is available for those who cannot stand for long periods.
The exhibition has wheelchair access and for those with a blue badge, there is limited on street parking close by. For more details on parking bays see the City of Edinburgh Council website.
For full details on the exhibition see Turner in January – Ireland’s Vaughan Bequest.
