New for 2025, Millais in Perthshire is a private collection of rarely seen artworks and personal belongings of prominent Victorian artist, John Everett Millais (1829-1896) 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.

See the Scottish Colourists as you’ve never seen them before in a new exhibition at Perth Art Gallery celebrating rare paintings by four of the most important Scottish artists of the 20th century, some of which have never before been on public display. Bringing together masterpieces by Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, John Duncan Fergusson, George Leslie Hunter and Samuel John Peploe from across Scotland, we’re inviting visitors to discover exceptional paintings in an exhibition that offers a unique look into the intertwined legacies of these iconic artists. This exhibition has been generously supported by Lyon & Turnbull and Aviva. Image – Fife Pastoral by GL Hunter (1877–1931). Reproduced with permission from the National Trust for Scotland.

Enhance your visit to The Scottish Colourists Revealed with an exclusive curated tour which explores the lives and legacy of Samuel John Peploe, Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, George Leslie Hunter and John Duncan Fergusson, collectively known as The Scottish Colourists. Discover how their bold use of colour, European influences and unique style transformed early 20th-century art and gain insight into four of Scotland’s most celebrated painters. Our expert curators will bring the exhibition to life, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into rarely seen paintings by four of the most important Scottish artists of the 20th Century, allowing you to engage with the exhibition in an intimate and insightful way.

Artists don’t always draw first, sometimes they paint with colour shapes. Come and learn how to use bright colours to paint shapes and then add lines, just like the Scottish Colourists did! First, you’ll learn a bit about the style and the artists of the Scottish Colourists by visiting the gallery for a close-up investigation, and then you will create your own picture using their bright and bold style. You will use paint, pen and pastels to create and explore with colour. It’s all about having fun, and no art skills are necessary. All materials will be provided. This event is suitable for children aged 4 to 8 years.

Join us for a special in-conversation event exploring the enduring legacy of Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, John Duncan Fergusson, George Leslie Hunter and Samuel John Peploe. This engaging talk will see Rhona Corbett, Head of Museums and Collections at Culture Perth and Kinross, delve into the bold and distinctive work of the Scottish Colourists with Alice Strang, award-winning art historian and curator. Together, they will explore the important legacy of these artists and share perspectives and insights that shape how we understand this remarkable group. This event will also offer a glimpse behind the scenes of staging a major exhibition, as they discuss the journey from idea to negotiating loans, displaying the work and opening to the public. Blending art history, behind the scenes expertise and lively discussion, this talk promises to be a fascinating exploration of colour and creativity. Please note that doors open at 6:45pm for this event.

Whether you’re an experienced artist or a novice painter, this event is for you. Join us for a fun evening surrounded by art, set within the beautiful Perth Art Gallery. You will have the chance to create your very own masterpiece on canvas, with a palette of vibrant paints at your disposal. Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz as you paint, socialise, and take in the relaxed atmosphere. Included in your ticket: A primed canvas and all painting supplies. Complimentary glass of fizz. Unique after-hours access to our venue. Please note this event is for adults 18 years and older and BYOB (Bring your own bottle) Doors open at 6:45pm for this event.

Artists sometimes paint pictures of flowers and fruits which are called still life paintings. We have lots of these in the gallery, so come and learn how to make your own still life painting using some props like a real artist. Next, have a go at painting your still life on paper in unusual and colourful colours! It’s all about having fun and no art skills are necessary. All materials will be provided. This event is suitable for children aged 4 to 8 years.

Have you ever wanted to make your own city? Come along to Perth Art Gallery to sketch your ideal cityscape, then bring it to life by building a 3D model using old boxes, cardboard and paper. You can decorate and name your streets with inspiration from our Vennels: Perth’s Little Streets exhibition on display at Perth Museum. Ice cream Alley? Dragon Run Vennel? Let your imagination run…through the streets! All materials will be provided. This event is suitable for children aged 4 to 8 years.