Styling the Nation at the museum - The Edinburgh Reporter

Ten new galleries open on 8 July 2016 at a cost of £14.1 million — Ten new galleries opened on 8 July 2016 at a cost of £14.1 million

Earlier this year The National Museum of Scotland opened ten new galleries following continued investment on Chambers Street.

In November the museum will host a sensationally stylish weekend inspired by the Museum’s new Art and Design galleries.

Styling the Nation will celebrate design and creativity on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 November 2016.

From workshops and maker demonstrations, to performance art and curator talks, Styling the Nation offers a packed programme of free events and activities exploring style in every sense.

Recent Edinburgh College of Art graduate and rising fashion talent Rhys McKenna, will lead a fashion illustration workshop. Now working with iconic British brand Burberry, Rhys will share expert tips on creating a distinct look and expressive style.

Two contemporary makers, jeweller Ruth Laird and textile artist Cally Booker, will set-up workbenches in the Grand Gallery, sharing their inspirations, practise and techniques with the public. This Meet Your Maker event is organised in partnership with Craft Scotland.

Inspired by the Museum’s fashion collections, sisters and artists Katie, Anna and Sophie Orton, collectively known as Ortonandon, will explore the politics and fashion behind the t-shirt slogan. The artists will invite visitors to create their own slogan t-shirts, before weaving these ideas into a public performance.

The weekend will also feature Voga sessions, a combination of Yoga and voguing, an opportunity to don retro style in the vintage photo booth and a fascinating programme of talks.

Styling the Nation is supported by EventScotland and is part of the 2016 Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design.

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs said: “Scotland has a wealth of incredibly creative individuals across the fashion, textiles and craft sectors that continually produce world-class, stylish designs. Taking place within Scotland’s Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design, this event is a wonderful celebration of Scottish talent and I hope it will encourage the next generation of aspiring designers.”

Stephen Allen, Head of Learning and Programmes at National Museums Scotland, said: “We are delighted to present this new event as part of the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design. Celebrating the National Museum of Scotland’s new Art and Design galleries, this weekend will give our visitors an opportunity to engage with and enjoy the collections in exciting new ways.”