The Art of Commemoration

'The Art of Commemoration' explores the story behind the Scottish National War Memorial, one of the most important 20th century buildings in Scotland. The exhibition brings together original architectural drawings, artworks, objects, and archival material. 

Located in Edinburgh Castle, the Scottish National War Memorial was opened by Edward, Prince of Wales on 14 July 1927. It embodied the country's grief and gratitude for the sacrifices of those who served during the First World War. The opening ceremony was the final act in a project that had taken 10 years to plan, fundraise, and build. 

Learn more about the first proposals to build a National Memorial in 1917, through to its opening a decade later. Find out about the women artists involved in the Memorial’s creation, and how they provided a nuanced perspective on the experience of war. Explore the impact the Memorial had on Scottish identity, and hear from those who work within the Memorial and continue to be inspired by it. 

Highlights include sculpted models created by artists such as Alice Meredith Williams and Phyllis Bone for the beautiful and poignant decoration that adorns the Memorial. 

The exhibition will also feature a new film that marks the activities of the Memorial today.