News, Events and Media

An exhibition dedicated to one of Old Aberdeen’s most famous landmarks is now open.

The area boasts one of the best preserved townscapes in Europe and has long been a favourite with artists.

The University of Aberdeen’s Old Town House will host a new display of paintings capturing distinguished landmarks such as King’s College and, in particular, the famous Crown Tower.

It follows the recent publication of King’s College, Aberdeen: history, building and artistic portrayal.

The book, by Professor Derek Ogston, CBE LLD FRSE, a former Senior Vice-Principal of the University of Aberdeen, and Margaret Carlaw, draws together pictures of the building over the past four centuries, tracing how it has changed and how the way in which it is portrayed has changed.

2009 also marks the quincentenary of King’s College Chapel and the exhibition forms part of the celebrations to mark its 500^th anniversary.

In addition to the notable external features of King’s College, the interior of the ancient chapel boasts fine examples of medieval craftsmanship with its original oak stalls and screens, and magnificent timber wagon ceiling.

It remains a focus for university worship and the setting for the marriage ceremonies of many alumni. As a result, the buildings of King’s College have a powerful emotional attraction.

Professor Ogston said: "It is timely during the celebrations marking the quincentenary of the consecration of King's College Chapel to mount an exhibition of pictures of King's College executed by artists over the centuries.

“Additionally, it provides an opportunity for the public to view rarely seen pictures in the University's and private collections".

The exhibition Images of King’s: the artistic portrayal of King’s College, Aberdeen, will be open throughout October, November and December, displaying a selection of the works featured in the book and forming an accompaniment to the Chapel 500 celebrations

Entry is free to the Old Town House which is open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm. For wheelchair or access enquiries please call 01224 273650.

Notes to Editors

Derek Ogston is an Emeritus Professor of Medicine and former Senior Vice-Principal at the University of Aberdeen.  Margaret Carlaw currently farms in the Scottish Borders and formerly pursued a career in education in Aberdeen.

The book is available for purchase from the University's online store at: www.abdn.ac.uk/about/online-store.php

Alternatively, please contact the Alumni Relations Office on 01224 273277

Issued by the Communications Team, Office of External Affairs, University of Aberdeen, King's College, Aberdeen. Tel: (01224) 272014.

Issued on: 05 October 2009

Ref: 282KingsExhibition
Contact: Joanne Rostron