I first heard of Charles Rennie Mackintosh while I studied at high school. My secondary art teacher was passionate about art, architecture, and the "Glasgow Four". No surprise that his passion rubbed off on me. Today I'm excited to share with you all about the events, exhibitions, and places to visit during the celebratory 150 Years Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
150 Years Charles Rennie Mackintosh
Glasgow School of Art
Charles Rennie Mackintosh was well before his time with compelling ideas and concepts. Today we are in appreciation of his legendary work as an artist, architect, and designer. Would you believe that he won a competition to design the building that is today the Glasgow School of Art? Back in 2014, disaster struck with catastrophic results. The grade 1 listed Mackintosh building containing the original Mackintosh library was seriously damaged by fire. The extensive restoration works are due to be completed in the summer of 2019. Discover more about Mackintosh, and his connection to the school and see the unique collection of original Mackintosh furniture on one of the 45-minute informative daily tours.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
From now until the beginning of August, you can enjoy the celebrated work of Mackintosh in an iconic exhibition at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum - Making the Glasgow Style. It has a full range of media comprising the Glasgow style including stained glass, ceramics, textiles, book designs, metalwork, furniture, stenciling, interiors, and architecture. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the exhibition with fewer visitors. Allow at least an hour to explore and watch the visual displays. Its a really interesting taking you through from the start to the later years of Mackintosh's career.
The Willow Tea Rooms
The Willow Tea Rooms on Buchanan Street opened in 1983 were inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Miss Cranston's Tea Room on Ingram Street, due to be re-opened in 2019. After visiting Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum why not sit, relax, and enjoy a light snack or a delicious afternoon tea in one of two stylish interiors - the Ladies Luncheon Room or the Chinese Room?
The Lighthouse
The old Glasgow Herald building was re-opened after 15 years in 1999 as part of Glasgow's winning bid for the UK City of Architecture and Design. Did you know it was also Charles Rennie Mackintosh's first public commission as a young draughtsman while working at Honeyman & Keppie? Discover more at the Mackintosh Centre within The Lighthouse. Don't miss the 360-degree views from the top floor.
I hope you have enjoyed reading and are inspired to delve into the celebratory events of 150 years of Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 2018. Happy Travels:) x
Thank you to the Glasgow School of Art and Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum.
Would you like to explore more of Glasgow? Don't miss the best accommodation rates and the top 10 places/attractions to visit in Glasgow.