Gray’s School of Art Degree Show 2026: A look to the future with a hint of the past

This year’s event forms part of the art school’s 140th anniversary celebrations and marks 60 years since the first Degree Show was held in June 1966 at the Michael Shewan-designed art school on Garthdee Road, beside the River Dee in Aberdeen.

A highlight of the North East cultural calendar, the show offers around 150 students the opportunity to exhibit projects developed over four years of study and practice across disciplines, including fine art, fashion and textiles, communication design, product design, and ceramics and jewellery, transforming the Gray’s campus into a vibrant gallery space.

The first degree show at Gray’s School of Art on Garthdee Road was held in June 1966. Its orange, black and yellow invitation was designed by the late Donald Addison, who worked at the art school and is best known for creating Aberdeen F.C.’s iconic goalmouth crest. The graphics for the 2026 event draw inspiration from the colours of that original invitation.

Fine Art student Aisla Spence said: “My time at Gray’s has been integral to my artistic practice and self-development; the experiences I have had to date have contributed to the evolution of my photography style within Fine Art.

“While I work towards the degree show as the culmination of my work, I am also reflecting on the connections I’ve built within the Gray’s community that have supported this development and sense of belonging. I am really looking forward to our Degree Show as the final results of our collective development and practice is showcased.”

Professor Dan Allen, Dean of Gray’s School of Art,said: “The Gray’s School of Art Degree Show 2026 comes as we continue to celebrate the 140th anniversary of our iconic institution.

“This is a magnificent celebration of both the creativity and hard work of students who have been considering how to mark the culmination of their time at the art school with exciting, innovative and provocative works.

“We look forward to throwing open the doors of Gray’s School of Art, so people see the depth of talent we have here and how after 60 years at Garthdee we continue to nurture creative people and allow them to bloom. This is a celebration open to everyone in Aberdeen, and throughout Scotland.”

The Degree Show forms part of the 140th anniversary celebrations of Gray’s School of Art continuing a special programme of events that has included Gray’s School of Art: 140 Years, Never Make a Head Bigger than a Melon.

An opening night event for students, staff, families and friends will take place on Friday 5 June from 19:00 – 22:00.  The Gray’s School of Art Degree Show 2026 is free to attend with free parking available while it is open.

Opening times are:

·       Saturday 6 & Sunday 7 June, 10:00 - 17:00

·       Monday 8 – Friday 12 June, 10:00 - 19:30

·       Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 June, 10:00 - 17:00

Gray's School of Art Degree Show 2026