New Publication: Highlights from the Angus Fine Art Collection

ANGUSalive Museums and Galleries has had the pleasure of publishing a new book, Highlights from the Angus Fine Art Collection : Where local stories meet global brushstrokes.

Born from the union of the seven historic burgh towns of Angus, this extraordinary collection is a vibrant tapestry of over 4,000 works and a myriad of mediums. Among the collection’s highlights are exceptional works by revered Scottish artists such as Henry Raeburn, James McIntosh Patrick, and Joyce W. Cairns. Not to be missed amongst works from global artists are two exquisite paintings by Pieter Brueghel the Younger – The Adoration of the Magi and Saint John Preaching in the Wilderness – the cornerstone of the historic Arbroath Art Collection, proudly displayed in Arbroath Library. The rich cultural heritage and landscapes of northeast Scotland are also celebrated with the inclusion of artists such as William Lamb, Edward Baird, and James Watterston Herald.

The collection’s rich Victorian-era roots include generous gifts from philanthropists like Lord Panmure, president of the Montrose Natural History and Antiquarian Society, whose legacy helped establish one of Scotland’s first purpose-built museums. Continuously growing and evolving, the Angus Council Fine Art Collection benefits from ongoing donations, bequests and acquisitions, and the Meffan Gallery in Forfar – Angus’s flagship gallery – is renowned for its ever-changing exhibitions that spotlight contemporary Scottish artists and captivate visitors year-round.

Emma Gilliland, ANGUSalive Museums & Galleries Collections Lead said: “Highlights from the Angus Fine Art Collection is the first of a series which will explore different aspects of the Angus Collections. We’re proud to prioritise ongoing research into our historically significant collections and are delighted to be able to share this with visitors.

“ANGUSalive is honoured to steward this remarkable collection on behalf of the people of Angus, ensuring that Scotland’s artistic heritage remains vibrant, accessible and inspiring for generations to come.”

Anyone who may have research enquiries or object donations are invited to get in touch. To find out more about donating to the collection visit www.angusalive.scot/museums-galleries/museums-galleries-archives-collection-donations/

The new publication, Highlights from the Angus Fine Art Collection: Where local stories meet global brushstrokes, can be purchased from Arbroath Signal Tower Museum, Montrose Museum & Art Gallery, and Forfar Meffan Museum & Art Gallery. The museums are open Wednesday to Monday from 10.30am – 4pm, and are closed on a Tuesday.

More Museum information can be found at www.angusalive.scot/museums-galleries.