We hold it, look through it, clean it, clink it, and break it; but how much do you really know about GLASS? Perth Art Gallery invites you to explore GLASS, an exhibition celebrating the material and makers that made Perthshire famous, from Monart to Caithness to Perthshire Paperweights. GLASS will take visitors on a journey across time and space through thousands of years of glassmaking, from ancient Syria to the workshops of nineteenth-century Venice, to the masters of glass production across Perth and Kinross. Discover this versatile material’s history, creativity, and beauty, which has helped put Perth on the map as the UK’s first UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Art. This is glass as you’ve never seen it before.

Looking for a fun, hands-on creative experience? Join us for a Fused Glass Workshop and design your own coaster or mini masterpiece with expert glass artist Catherine Lowe! In just 90 minutes, you’ll learn the basics of glass cutting, get a fascinating intro to the glass fusing process, and explore different types of glass as you craft something unique. No experience is needed – just bring your imagination! All tools and materials are provided, and your finished piece will be kiln-fired and ready for collection from the gallery the following week. Please note: Wear closed shoes and bring reading glasses if required. This event is suitable for ages 14+. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult who stays on site. Spaces are limited; book early to avoid missing out!

Artist Carrie Fertig will tell the story behind the commissioning of Millie, the glass sheep in Perth Art Gallery's GLASS exhibition, which led to a Scottish Glass Society exhibition that generated several works by renowned artists also in the GLASS exhibition, and how a performance at Perth Art Gallery would transform her practice. Carrie’s work has received widespread recognition, with several works housed in prestigious collections, including the Roslin Institute, where two of her life-size glass sheep, both named “Dolly” after the famous cloned sheep, are on display. During this engaging talk, Carrie will discuss her glass flameworking techniques and share insights into her artistic practice. From six-meter glass wings that filled a transept in Chichester Cathedral, to thousands of glass icicles suspended from the ceiling of a German castle to be played by visitors as a musical instrument, to performing with a glass installation roped to her waist, to making glass instruments live in the fire during musical performances of entirely glass instruments, don’t miss the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Carrie Fertig’s innovative and captivating work.

Unleash your creativity and craft your own unique glass mosaic masterpiece under the expert guidance of renowned local artist Katy Galbraith. As part of the GLASS exhibition at Perth Art Gallery, this hands-on workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of mosaic-making using recycled materials. Katy Galbraith, a professional mosaic artist based in Perthshire, is known for her vibrant, eco-friendly designs crafted from recycled materials. In this workshop, you’ll discover the beauty of sustainable art by incorporating recycled glass materials into your mosaic. This workshop is perfect for craft enthusiasts eager to explore new mediums and techniques; no prior experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm. You’ll leave with a beautiful glass mosaic and a newfound appreciation for this timeless art form. Don’t miss this chance to create, learn, and be inspired within the setting of the GLASS exhibition.

We’re delighted to welcome renowned glass designer Helen MacDonald to Perth Art Gallery for an exclusive evening. In this special talk, Helen, whose work with Caithness Glass has shaped the landscape of contemporary glass art, will share her creative journey, the inspiration behind her distinctive designs, and the artistry involved in glassmaking. With over 50 years of experience, Helen has been at the forefront of innovation in decorative glass. From her celebrated limited-edition paperweights to bold and expressive art glass, her work continues to push the boundaries of design. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from a master of the craft, gain behind-the-scenes insights into the world of Caithness Glass, and discover the lasting impact of Perthshire’s glassmaking heritage.

Step beyond the display cases and uncover the fascinating world of glassmaking with a curator-led tour of GLASS. This exclusive experience offers a deeper look at Perth & Kinross’s remarkable glass collections and the rich history behind Perthshire’s role in decorative glass design and production. Our expert curators will bring our exhibition to life, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into the craftsmanship of renowned local manufacturers such as Monart, Vasart, and Caithness, as well as the skilled artisans behind these exquisite creations. Discover the evolution of glass as both an art form and a practical craft, from ancient Syria to 19th-century Venice and beyond. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the beauty and science of glass, this tour will offer a rare opportunity to engage with the exhibition in an intimate and insightful way. October Exclusive Insights & Expert Perspectives – Curator-Led Tours of GLASS include an exhibition ticket for GLASS and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Get into the Halloween spirit with a creative twist at Perth Art Gallery! At this drop-in event, you can design your own stained-glass decorations in a hands-on crafting session with Sara Barr from Kids Art Class. Designed especially for children and families, inspired by our GLASS exhibition, this playful and creative session will introduce young artists to the magic of stained glass.

Drop into Perth Art Gallery for the opportunity to create your own design or select from pre-carved designs in our lino printing workshop. You’ll learn how to carve lino and print repeat patterns on table runners, tote bags, and tea towels. Each participant will receive a piece of lino to carve or can opt to use a pre-carved piece featuring a summery theme. This event is supported by Perth UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Art. The recommended age for this event is 13+. Ages 5-13 are welcome to attend, however they must have an adult to supervise them.

Mini Play for Babies is a relaxed baby group session of colour, sound, and touch where tiny hands explore soft textures, soothing melodies, and playful rhythms. It’s a space where art comes alive through the rustle of fabric, the sparkle of light, and the joy of song and movement. Like a living painting, each session invites little ones to build up their play skills using the magic of connection through the senses. After the session has ended, everyone can enjoy our play-inspired, Hands On Art area at their leisure. Sessions are suitable for babies aged 0-12 months.

Get creative as a family and come and join us for some play through art! Play, explore, and create art in these fun sessions for children under 5 (older siblings are welcome) and their grown-ups. Each month, we will explore a famous artist together through a drop-in session. Have fun creating in the making area together, explore our Hands On Art area, and move through our current exhibitions as you wish. A relaxed and informal time for the family at the gallery. Please book in advance for “Mini Messy Play for Families” to secure your spot, and then feel free to drop in and out of the session anytime between 10:30am and 12pm.

Come and join us for a Toddle and Waddle through our full gallery! Bring your little one and grab one of our pull-along toys, and together we will gently plod through our full gallery, stopping for stories and songs as we go. Something for adults and wee ones to explore together. This is a chance to feel confident with your wee one in the larger gallery and learn a little something about our paintings. Recommended for 2- 5 years old, but babes in arms are welcome. Spaces are limited Booking opens on the Monday before the session. Call 01738 783400 to book your spot. Phone lines are open Monday, 10am-5pm and Thursday, 10am-7pm.

New for 2025, Millais in Perthshire is a private collection of rarely seen artworks and personal belongings of prominent Victorian artist, John Everett Millais (1829-1826) and his Perth-born wife, Euphemia “Effie” Chalmers Gray (1828-1897). Millais is widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest artists and was recognised around the world during his lifetime. He was highly successful, amassing a great fortune and helped to shape the direction of British art for generations to come. Culture Perth & Kinross - On display exclusively at Perth Art Gallery as part of long-term loan from the artist’s great-grandson, Sir Geoffroy Millais, this display explores the profound connection between Millais and Perthshire, a landscape that inspired several of his most celebrated works. Millais met his wife, Effie Gray, in Scotland in 1853, while she was still married to the art critic John Ruskin (1819-1900). Millais and Gray married in 1855 following her annulment from Ruskin and the couple settled in Perth, where they stayed for several years before moving permanently to London in 1861. Perthshire was not only a home for the couple, but a creative haven. Millais returned frequently to indulge his passion for fishing, hunting and shooting. The family rented accommodation in various houses near Dunkeld each autumn and Millais drew inspiration from the landscapes, rivers, and people of the area, with local scenery appearing in many of his most celebrated paintings. Alongside the loans, the portrait of his wife, Effie Millais, and Waking, which features his daughter, will also be on display.