Scottish National Gallery
The Art of Golf: The story of Scotland's national sport
12 July – 26 October 2014
Sir John Lavery, Golfing at North Berwick, c.1920, Courtesy Private Collection
The Art of Golf tells the story of the birth and evolution of Scotland's national sport by bringing together beautiful paintings and extraordinary photographs of unique significance within the game's history.
The landmark exhibition begins in the early 17th century, with paintings of the playing of 'kolf', the European ancestor of the game we know today. It then charts the origins of modern golf in Scotland, including paintings of important early links courses. The first half of the show culminates with the greatest golf painting of all time, Charles Lees' The Golfers (1847), which depicts a match being played on the Old Course at the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, St Andrews.
Moving into the 20th century, The Art of Golf showcases beautiful oils by Sir John Lavery of the course at North Berwick, as well as rare original golf-themed railway posters. The exhibition takes the story of golf right up to the present day. Images of the superstars of the modern game hang alongside breathtaking aerial shots of Scotland's most famous courses, including the Old Course in St Andrews, Carnoustie, Muirfield and Gleneagles.
Mon-Sun, 10am-6pm
Outside August: Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm
Thu, 10am-7pm
£8 (£6)