Alasdair Gray & John Byrne are inarguably two of the most significant figures in 20th century Scottish culture, their work continuing to inspire and stimulate artists practising today.
With the kind support of our clients, Lyon & Turnbull presented a showcase of works by Gray & Byrne from across eras and mediums, including early and never before exhibited pieces.
Though Gray and Byrne's artistic identities were completely unique and distinct, they shared much in common. Both were extraordinarily talented, with work spanning multiple disciplines. They are renowned and beloved as artists, playwrights and authors. Interestingly and importantly, they were both born and raised in the environs of Glasgow (Byrne in Paisley and Gray in Riddrie, north-east of the city) and studied at the Glasgow School of Art. This geography was to become an intrinsic part of both of their artistic outputs.
They had both been brought to the fore of our consciousness in 2024, with John Byrne’s sad recent passing at the end of 2023, and with the worldwide cinematic release of the film adaptation of Alasdair Gray’s novel ‘Poor Things’.
We were delighted to have been able to celebrate the work of these two fascinating and important artists in July 2024 at our Glasgow gallery.
This exhibition has now closed.
