Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

About

Set amid landscaped sculpture gardens on Belford Road, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is home to Scotland’s outstanding collection of modern and contemporary art. Spread across two buildings, Modern One and Modern Two, it showcases works from the early 20th century to today, featuring artists such as Matisse, Picasso, Hepworth, Hockney, and Scotland’s own Eduardo Paolozzi. Modern One, a neoclassical building designed by William Burn, presents bold, thought‑provoking displays and overlooks Charles Jencks’ dramatic landform in the grounds. Across the road, Modern Two, housed in a former orphanage by Thomas Hamilton, offers major exhibitions, Surrealist treasures, and the Paolozzi Studio. The surrounding sculpture park features works by leading international artists, creating a seamless dialogue between art and nature. With free admission, vibrant temporary shows, and inviting cafés, the Gallery is a dynamic space where creativity, history, and landscape meet.

Edinburgh Scotland
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Location

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is located on Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR, to the west of the city centre. This renowned gallery consists of two main buildings, Modern One and Modern Two, which face each other across beautiful sculpture parkland. Modern One, housed in a neo-classical building originally designed in 1825, contains the main collection of modern and contemporary art, while Modern Two, formerly the Dean Orphan Hospital dating to 1833, hosts additional exhibits and temporary shows. The gallery showcases over 6,000 works including paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art from the 20th century to the present day, featuring artists like Dalí, Giacometti, Hockney, and Warhol. The venue also offers cafés, shops, and extensive grounds to explore. It is accessible by foot from Princes Street or Haymarket Station, with nearby parking and public transport options, set amidst peaceful parkland near the Water of Leith.

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