The Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts’ 130 years of Royal Status

Jan 10, 2026

I’m delighted to be celebrating The Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts’ 130 years of Royal Status. The exhibition of Institute Members is at the Lillie Gallery in Glasgow and runs 17th January to 20th February 2026
Exhibition & Anniversary Details
  • Founded: Established in 1861, the RGI historically hosted some of the largest open art exhibitions outside of London and supported legendary names like Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Scottish Colourists. [1]
  • Anniversary: Celebrated 130 years since receiving its Royal Charter from Queen Victoria in 1896 (having been originally founded in 1861). [1]

  • Significance: Served as the RGI’s first major exhibition in a decade, helping bring the historic institution back from the brink of closure and re-establishing its annual exhibition tradition. [1]

  • Location: Lillie Art Gallery, Station Road, Milngavie, G62 8BZ (phone: 0141 956 5536). [1]

  • Featured Works: Showcased 130 works by leading contemporary Scottish artists and past/present members alongside historic pieces from the gallery’s permanent collection. [1, 2, 3]
'How Wonderful the Summer Was'; 36 x 48 inches (91 x 122 cm); Acrylic & Collage on Box Panel

‘How Wonderful the Summer Was’; 36 x 48 inches (91 x 122 cm); Acrylic & Collage on Box Panel

'High Ground'; 10 x 12 inches (25 x 30 cm); Acrylic & Collage on Panel;

‘High Ground’; 10 x 12 inches (25 x 30 cm); Acrylic & Collage on Panel;

'The Light of the Wind'; 8.75 x 12.25 inches (22 x 31 cm); Acrylic & Collage on Card

‘The Light of the Wind’; 8.75 x 12.25 inches (22 x 31 cm); Acrylic & Collage on Card

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