Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art, or GoMA, sits in Royal Exchange Square inside a neoclassical building dating from 1778. Its galleries present modern and contemporary work by Scottish and international artists, with exhibitions that change over time. Look around the historic interior as well as the art, then step outside to see the Duke of Wellington statue, often pictured with a traffic cone on its head. Entry is free, and the building also has a café, library and shop.
A townhouse before it was a gallery
GoMA occupies a neoclassical building in Royal Exchange Square. It was built in 1778 as a townhouse for William Cunninghame, a wealthy tobacco merchant. In the years that followed, the building served several purposes, including as a bank and a library, before opening as Glasgow’s centre for modern and contemporary art in 1996.
The building’s earlier life is part of the visit. A permanent display traces its history, and the original architecture gives the galleries a different character from a purpose-built museum. Take time to notice the contrast between the formal interior and the contemporary works shown within it.
Art from Glasgow and beyond
The gallery’s exhibitions bring together Scottish and international artists. Its collection and past displays have included painting, sculpture, photography, prints, film and installations. Works by Scottish artists such as John Bellany and Ken Currie have appeared alongside pieces by artists including Andy Warhol, David Hockney and Sebastião Salgado.
Temporary exhibitions change, so the subjects and styles on view depend on when you visit. GoMA also runs workshops and events, including activity for younger visitors. Some works may feel unfamiliar or challenging; approaching them with curiosity can make the visit more rewarding. The displays explore different ideas and experiences through art, rather than following a single style.
Finding your way around
The gallery has four exhibition spaces across several floors, along with educational facilities and a library. One suggested route is to start at the top and work down through the building. Exhibitions can vary considerably, and individual rooms may appeal in different ways, so allow time to pause rather than rushing between floors.
Access facilities include wheelchair-accessible entrances, lifts and toilets. Wheelchairs can be borrowed, and tactile models and audio descriptions are available. The gallery also has a café and shop, so you can take a break or browse after seeing the exhibitions.
The statue in Royal Exchange Square
The equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington stands just outside GoMA. Its traffic-cone headwear has become a familiar Glasgow sight, and the statue is an easy stop before or after the gallery. It is worth looking at the building’s exterior and the statue together: both are part of the setting around the gallery entrance.
Häufige Fragen
Is entry to the Gallery of Modern Art free?
Yes. Entry is free, and donations are welcome but not compulsory.
How long do you need at GoMA?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours to explore the galleries at a comfortable pace.
What is there to see at the Gallery of Modern Art?
The gallery presents modern and contemporary art by Scottish and international artists, alongside a permanent display about the building’s history. Temporary exhibitions change over time.
Is GoMA wheelchair accessible?
The gallery has an accessible entrance, lifts and toilets. Wheelchairs are available to borrow, and tactile models and audio descriptions are provided.
