Paolozzi at 100

Paolozzi at 100
27 January – 21 April 2024
National Galleries Scotland: Modern Two
The Dean Gallery
75 Belford Road
Edinburgh, EH4 3DR
Admission Free

The National Galleries of Scotland commemorate the centenary of the birth of one of Scotland’s most famous artists, Eduardo Paolozzi. The “Paolozzi at 100” exhibition will open on Saturday, January 27th, and will pay homage to the father of Pop Art. This exhibition will be held on the ground floor of Modern Two in Edinburgh and is free for all visitors. It will take them on a journey through some of Paolozzi’s most renowned artworks, including his collages, prints, textiles, ceramics, and sculptures.

Eduardo Paolozzi was born in Leith, Edinburgh, in 1924 to Italian parents. He studied in Edinburgh and London before spending two years in Paris where he produced bronze sculptures and collages inspired by Dada and Surrealism. These collages often combined magazine advertisements with cartoons and machine parts, creating enigmatic pieces of art. After returning to London, he taught at several art schools and continued to develop his printmaking and sculpture techniques. His interest in mass media, science, and technology led him to develop a style that would later be known as Pop Art. Paolozzi is a much-loved son of Edinburgh, and his contributions to the art world have made him a well-known figure both locally and internationally.

Paolozzi was awarded a knighthood in 1989 and in 1995, he generously bequeathed a significant amount of his art to the National Galleries of Scotland. In the exhibition titled “Paolozzi at 100” at Modern Two, visitors can view 60 of his vibrant artworks displayed across two rooms, as well as a special display in the Keiller Library. Through a selection of works from Scotland’s national collection, visitors can explore the colorful life of this cultural icon.

The exhibition chronicles the life of Paolozzi, starting with the years after his first visit to Paris in 1947. Visitors can explore his unique perspective on popular culture and the machine age, including his collaborations with Dovecot Tapestry Studio on the highly detailed Mickey tapestry and Wedgwood on the vibrant graphic and gold ceramic plate designs. The exhibit also features the dynamic Calcium Light Night and Moonstrip Empire News screenprints. Be sure not to miss Paolozzi’s public art projects, including the striking mosaics at Tottenham Court Road Underground Station. In the Penrose Gallery, a large projection will showcase Paolozzi’s 1971 partnership with the fashion house Lanvin.

All of these incredible things can be seen at Modern Two: Paolozzi’s London art studio, the towering Vulcan, and the Cleish Castle Ceiling Panels. These works of art are on permanent display for visitors to enjoy all year round. While you’re there, grab a coffee at Paolozzi’s Kitchen, named after the artist himself, and take a leisurely walk through the grounds. Keep an eye out for Paolozzi’s imposing sculpture, Master of the Universe. To learn more about the artworks, visitors can take advantage of an eight-stop, free audioguide on Smartify.

Anne Lyden, Director-General at the National Galleries of Scotland said: “Eduardo Paolozzi is one of Scotland’s best-known artists and was an Edinburgh icon. His powerful influence can still be seen across the city today in everything from sculptures and architecture to fashion to food and drink brands. The National Galleries of Scotland is delighted to be celebrating his 100^th birthday with an exhibition that brings together 60 key Paolozzi works from Scotland’s national collection. We hope everyone will take the opportunity to enjoy this free glimpse into the phenomenal art that is Paolozzi at 100.” 

Paolozzi at 100 opens at National Galleries Scotland: Modern Two on Saturday 27 January 2024. Join us and discover how high art became part of the everyday; from towering sculptures and chaotic prints to luxurious textiles and iconic collages, it’s time to celebrate the city’s favourite artist in style.

Paolozzi at 100 opens on the 27th of January until the 21st of April 2024 at National Galleries Scotland: Modern Two

©2024 Eduardo Paolozzi, National Galleries Scotland