The National Galleries Of Scotland have something for everyone this summer, with more than 20 free events taking place at the National, Portrait and Modern galleries. Learn more about the exhibitions on display with ticketed tours led by experts; hear the stories behind the art with tours and talks; enjoy music performances in the Portrait and National galleries; and take the whole family along for fun accessible events, or try creating your own art in the Drawing Room workshops.

Over the next three months, visitors can learn more about the exhibitions, acquisitions and collections with talks from curators and guest speakers. Learn about the work of contemporary artist Do Ho Suh with Amie Corry, director of publications for Do Ho Suh, and independent curator Fatoş Üstek. Professor Kenneth McConkey hosts a special opening talk for An Irish Impressionist: Lavery On Location. Jim Phillips, Professor of economic and social history at the University of Glasgow discusses the Miner’s strike in relation to the Before And After Coal exhibition. And you can explore new works in Scotland’s national collection with a special look at the rare Encounter by Remedios Varo, the first oil painting by the artist to enter a public collection in the UK.

Enjoy free live music events among the beautiful art and surroundings of the Portrait and National gallery, with performances from Live Music Now musicians, including clarinet quartet The Four Keys, and Mexican guitarist Morgan Szymanski together with Scottish violinist Roo Geddes and Mexican singer-songwriter Lavinia Negrete.

There are plenty of opportunities to explore the galleries with the help of a tour guide to hear the stories behind the art. Learn about the artworks and their themes in the Scottish Art In Focus tours, taking place monthly on Saturday afternoons. Learn more about the changing landscape of Edinburgh and Scotland and the people who made it all happen; the Inside Out: Edinburgh Old and New walking tour offers a more detailed look into Edinburgh’s evolving cityscape and how it influenced artists. In support of An Irish Impressionist: Lavery On Location, why not join the afternoon tour on Sunday 28 July. It will explore the themes from the life of the Belfast-born artist, from Scotland to New York via Paris and Morocco.

The Drawing Room workshops offer a unique space to explore creativity and drawing, with no experience necessary. These sessions bring fresh, relevant and accessible approaches to drawing from some of Scotland’s most exciting artists. At the Women In Revolt! workshop, visitors can discover how mark-making can be conceived as sculpture, installation, video, writing, textiles and more. And for those unable to make it to the gallery there is the chance to get involved online with with The Drawing Room Kitchen Table on Zoom.

There are plenty of free family activities for all ages, as well as accessible events for visitors with specific access needs. Weekly Family Friday events allow children to let their imaginations run wild. And there are mornings dedicated to young children who can explore interesting textures, lights, sounds and sensory art-fun. Later in the day, older kids can get involved in the trails, new play activities and get hands-on making art with the professionals. And Sensory-Friendly Sundays are great for families with children who have additional support needs to ensure a quiet, comfortable space is available at all times.

To find events or discover more visit the National Galleries of Scotland website; main picture: Julie Howden.