Celebrating contemporary art

Since its inception in 2001, the Contemporary Visual Arts Programme at Mount Stuart has received national and international acclaim. The Stuart family are fervent patrons of the art world and this programme continues a valued tradition of commissioning new artwork and design.

The Visual Arts Programme aims to promote public interest in contemporary visual arts by showcasing talent and bringing exhibitions of an international standard to Bute and Argyll. Directed by Sophie Crichton Stuart, it has attracted many exceptional artists, including 2007 Turner Prize nominee Nathan Coley.

We are delighted that the programme is proving so successful in opening up new perspectives, dialogues and audiences. It celebrates the innovative ways in which contemporary art interprets historical, cultural and environmental contexts and cements Mount Stuart's long association with creativity and progressive thought.

Current exhibitor - Mark Neville

Mark Neville (2008)
Fancy Pictures

Press Preview: 10 May, 2 to 4pm
Artist Talk: 11 May, 3pm
Exhibition: 11 May – 30 September 2008

Visitor Centre, gallery & gardens open 10am - 6pm daily
House 11am- 5pm Sunday to Friday, and 10am -2.30pm Saturday
Last admission to the house 1¼ hours prior to closing.

Admission free to visual art exhibitions

The story of the Visual Arts Programme

Previously Commissioned Artists:

Moyna Flannigan (2007)
Sarah Staton (2007)
Nathan Coley (2006)
Anya Gallaccio (2005)
Mischa Haller (2005)
Langlands & Bell (2004)
Christine Borland (2003)
Victoria Clare Bernie (2003)
Katy Lynton (2003)
Thomas Joshua Cooper (2002)
Kate Whiteford (2001)

Mount Stuart, Britain’s most astounding Victorian gothic house

Goat Pedicure, from the audio-slide installation Tula Fancies, Mark Neville, 2008

Newborn lamb, from the audio-slide installation Tula Fancies, Mark Neville, 2008