November 4th 2024.
When the winds are howling or the sun is shining down, Scotland and its people have always had a special relationship with the ever-changing weather. And this unique connection is also reflected in the Scots language, with a whopping 421 different words for snow.
An exciting new exhibition at The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery will take visitors on a journey through Scotland's weather, showcasing the works of artists who have captured the rain, snow, clouds, and even the sun. Through their art, they tell the story of how weather impacts our lives and emotions.
Each piece in the exhibition, titled "A Weather Eye," has been thoughtfully paired with a Scottish word, highlighting the significance of language in our understanding of the weather. Lesser-known words like gowstie, ralliach, fissle, and feuchter have been matched to specific works, providing a unique context for visitors to explore and discover their own favorites.
With over 30 artworks on display, visitors can marvel at breathtaking skyscapes influenced by abstract expressionism, from artists like Fife-born John Houston and American Jon Schueler. Schueler, a World War II pilot, was fascinated by the ever-changing colors and forms of the Scottish skies, often exploring themes of memory and emotion. He once said, "I have found every passion in the sky."
One of the rare and groundbreaking pieces on display is "Rain on Princes Street" by celebrated Scottish portraitist and landscape painter Stanley Cursiter. Inspired by the Italian Futurists, this painting captures the dynamism of a newly industrialized world, with the pouring rain adding a fragmentary and distorting effect.
Visitors can also expect to be captivated by stunning works from three of Scotland's finest landscape painters: John Morrison, William McTaggart, and James McIntosh Patrick. These artists showcase how color, form, and technique can be used to depict the physical qualities of weather.
Kirsty Matheson, the exhibition curator, carefully selected each piece from The McManus' own collection. She is seen here pulling out a painting by Jon Schueler, "Storm at Sea Remembered," from the Fine Art store. This exhibition is a testament to the deep and lasting connection between the Scottish people and their weather, and how it has inspired artists to create works that capture the power and subtlety of the elements.
Anna Day, Head of Cultural Services at Leisure & Culture Dundee, describes the exhibition as "stunning" and a true representation of Scotland's relationship with the weather. She adds, "It not only showcases beautiful scenes but also highlights the influence of weather on our daily lives, shaping our moods, culture, and language. By pairing evocative artworks with Scots words, we invite visitors to explore the rich interplay between art and the environment around us."
For those wondering, the phrase "blowin' a hoolie" is believed to have originated from the Orkney Scots word "hoolan," meaning a very strong wind. And as you explore the exhibition, you may come across some unique Scots words like gowstie, ralliach, fissle, and feuchter, which all describe different aspects of wild, stormy weather.
Don't miss the opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind exhibition, which runs from 9 November 2024. And for more news stories, be sure to check out Scottish Field. You can also subscribe to read the latest issue.
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