Grinneas nan Eilean

23 July - 10 Sep 2022

Sat 23 July – Sat 10 Sep

Drop what you’re doing, unless it’s making art. An Lanntair is excited to announce the return of the annual islands open exhibition Grinneas nan Eilean this summer!

Less an exhibition than a community installation, Grinneas dates back to the seventies and has been an essential part of An Lanntair since its opening in 1985, bringing an opportunity for practicing artists who are residents of, or are from, the Western Isles to display their work at a major public gallery.

Hundreds of works are submitted covering all the known disciplines, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, ceramics, textiles…presented by professionals, amateurs and enthusiasts alike. It is by no means an exaggeration to say that there is something for everyone!

Head of Visual Arts, Roddy Murray said: “After two years of lockdown and other challenges, it’s important to host Grinneas nan Eilean again. It’s an exhibition that is all about openness, inclusion and engagement and – we hope – demonstrates a return to normal life as we remember it.”

A window of opportunity to express creativity, celebrate ingenuity and exhibit the true freedom of art in all forms. If you’ve ever dreamt of producing artwork that could be displayed in a public gallery, this is your chance!

Grinneas is one of the most anticipated events of the year at An Lanntair, as the overall impact of the exhibition always leaves a lasting impression on both viewers and artists. The work climbs the walls in true salon fashion, while the detailed viewing has all the hallmarks of a treasure hunt as visitors scan the panorama of art for that special piece.

And as if that wasn’t not incentive enough – As part of the Royal National Mòd, in Perth from 14th-22nd October, The Highland Society of London, An Comunn Gàidhealach and Perth & Kinross Council have invited An Lanntair to submit artwork from Grinneas nan Eilean for inclusion in the inaugural Highland Art Prize exhibition and competition at the City Contemporary Art Gallery. Read more about the Highland Art Prize exhibition here.