2 April - 3 May 2026

Power from the Glens: James Shearer RSA & Contemporaries

Paintings by James Shearer RSA and other visionary architects who brought hydropower to the Scottish Highlands.

This special edition of the acclaimed SSE exhibition Power from the Glens shines a spotlight on James Shearer RSA, the visionary Scottish architect who was instrumental in the transformation of the Highlands and also the architect of Dunfermline’s old Fire Station, where the exhibition will be staged.

Hosted by Fire Station Creative in celebration of the Royal Scottish Academy’s 200th anniversary, the exhibition brings together large-scale artworks on loan from SSE’s collection of stunning watercolours, detailed architectural drawings, and engineering plans from Shearer and his contemporaries — the talented architects and engineers who helped design and construct 54 power stations, 78 dams, and over 300 kilometres of underground tunnels.

Power from the Glens: James Shearer RSA celebrates the creativity, collaboration, and vision that brought affordable, hydro-electric power to Highland communities, transforming how people lived, worked, and connected to the landscape.

3 September - 1 November 2026

Symbols of the Mind - A Showcase of Paintings by James Cumming RSA and His Former Students

Symbols of the Mind is an exhibition celebrating the life and work of Dunfermline-born painter James Cumming RSA. Born on Damside Street, just steps from the town’s iconic Art Deco fire station, Cumming’s journey comes full circle as his art returns to this historic setting. Known for his distinctive symbolism and intellectual depth, Cumming’s work will continue to inspire new generations. 

The exhibition of works selected from the artist's studio bequest to the RSA also features paintings by his acclaimed former students, including Alexander Moffat RSA and Stuart McKenzie RSA, whose contributions highlight Cumming’s enduring influence on 20th-century Scottish art and his lasting legacy as both artist and teacher.

 

Banner image: Fire Station Creative