John Byrne exhibition opens at Kelvingrove
It's the first retrospective show of the Paisley-born artist's work in 20 years
Last updated 27th May 2022
John Byrne’s life and career are being explored in a new retrospective exhibition, opening today at Glasgow's Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
Visitors can explore an expansive collection of the beloved Paisley-born artist and playwright’s works, including paintings of Billy Conolly and more than 40 self-portraits of Byrne.
A Big Adventure is the first retrospective of Byrne, who is still writing and painting at 82 years old, in 20 years.
John Byrne said: “It’s a delight to be reunited with works I've not seen in years, especially as they are hanging on the walls of a place I and so many people love.
“You could say it tells much of my life story. I hope visitors enjoy it, seeing art should be fun. For me it's certainly been a fun, big adventure all these years.”
John Patrick Byrne; A Big Adventure
Portrait of Billy Connolly (b. 1942) CSG CIC Glasgow Museums Collections
Emma Thompson as Suzi Kettles from Tutti Frutti, 1985-86 Lent by Emma Thompson
The Slab Boys, original poster artwork for the Ramshorn Theatre, 2009. Private Collection, Charles Marks
King's Dome mural artwork
Jeanine with Flowers. Private collection
Beach Boy with Fish Bone. Private collection
Hands Up, 2006 Lent by Andrew and Fiona Paterson
Inspiration for young artists
Martin McSheaffrey Craig, the exhibition’s curator, hopes Byrne’s story will inspire younger generations.
Mr McSheaffrey Craig said: “It’s important for younger visitors to see that being an artist, or being anything you want, is achievable wherever you come from.
“It’s great to see his styles and his self actually change through the portraits. I’m excited for people to see those self-portraits and all the other special things at the exhibition.”
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