17 April - 19 September

An exhibition of paintings by John Bellany HRSA

This remarkable exhibition of formative and lesser-known works by renowned Scottish artist John Bellany HRSA, now on display at the John Gray Centre, Haddington, until 19 September 2026.

Presented in partnership with the Royal Scottish Academy (RSA) as part of its flagship RSA200: Celebrating Together programme, the exhibition was curated by Helen Bellany (the late artist’s wife) and Alexander Moffat RSA, two figures who knew the artist personally, offering a deeply insightful and intimate perspective on Bellany’s life and work.

This rare opportunity to see unseen works from the Bellany estate, the private collection of Alexander Moffat RSA, the East Lothian Council collection, and major loans from the Royal Scottish Academy. Many of these pieces have never been publicly exhibited, offering visitors a rare chance to encounter Bellany’s early and lesser-known works alongside striking large-scale paintings.

Born in Port Seton in 1942, Bellany became one of the most significant figures in 20th-century Scottish art, achieving international recognition for his bold, emotionally charged paintings. His enduring connection to Scotland’s east coast fishing communities shaped his distinctive visual language, and this exhibition brings his work powerfully back to the landscapes and heritage that inspired him.

Live Conservation:  9 & 23 July 2026

10 am – 1 pm, 2 pm – 4 pm

Spotlight on ‘The Harvester’ – and Its Rescue

A highlight of the exhibition is The Harvester, an exceptional and unusual work that departs from Bellany’s typical style. Once displayed at the now demolished Chesser House in Edinburgh, the painting later hung in a stairwell at Brunton Hall, Musselburgh.

After years out of public view the painting has been displayed in the exhibition, but it looks a little unusual because it now requires conservation. To start the conservation process the artwork has been removed from its frame and covered in a protective layer to prevent paint loss.

See Conservation in Action

In an exciting and rare opportunity, visitors will be able to watch live conservation work in the gallery, as professional conservator Owen Davison (The Conservation Studio, Edinburgh) begins essential treatment. This work will include:

• Stabilising fragile and damaged paint layers
• Carefully cleaning the surface
• Repairing and retouching areas of loss and damage
• Restoring and refitting the original frame
•  

The first two live conservation days on 9^th and 23^rd July will allow visitors to meet the conservator, ask questions, and gain insight into the fascinating process of preserving artworks.

Please note that the gallery will close early on ‘live conservation’ days to allow staff time to reset for the next day! Look out for more dates being announced over the summer.

Support the Restoration

East Lothian Council Museums Service is currently fundraising to complete this vital conservation work. Thanks to generous donations and internal funding, the first three days of treatment are secured, but further support is needed.

Visitors who wish to contribute can donate at the museum desk and play a part in restoring this important painting for future generations.

Talks & Events

A programme of talks, events and special activities will run alongside the exhibition. Visit the John Gray Centre website and see social media for the latest updates.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the powerful work of John Bellany, discover rarely seen pieces, and witness art conservation happening live.

6 July 2026, 5.30 pm - 6.30 pm 

John Bellany HRSA – 1960s and Selected Works, with Alexander Moffat OBE RSA and Sandy Wood, RSA Head of Collections

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL: jgc@eastlothian.gov.uk