On a crisp autumn day, our school art trip took us to the heart of Edinburgh, where we had the incredible opportunity to explore the Women in Revolt exhibition at the Scottish National Gallery Modern 2. This immersive experience allowed us to dive into the world of art history and contemporary perspectives through the powerful lens of women’s experiences and expressions.
Our first stop was the Scottish National Gallery, where we explored a selection of works that shed light on art across various movements and time periods. The gallery provided a rich backdrop for understanding the evolution of art and highlighting traditional art history.
We then moved onto Modern 1 and 2, a short walk from the Centre of Edinburgh.
The highlight of our trip was the Women in Revolt exhibition at Modern 2 which was a celebration of revolutionary female artists. This exhibition included a wide range of contemporary work, from abstract painting and sculpture to photography and multimedia installations. Each piece was a powerful statement reflecting how women have challenged not only the artworld but also society’s expectations.
A particularly striking exhibit was the array of historical pieces showing the shift in how women were depicted in art—both as subjects and artists. It was inspiring to see how female artists, especially those involved in the Women in Revolt exhibition, used their work to challenge societal norms and explore themes of empowerment, resistance, and identity.
One of the most memorable exhibits was a multimedia installation that featured a series of photographs and video pieces addressing themes of activism and social change. These works resonated with us as they encouraged reflection on gender, power, and the ongoing fight for equality. As we moved through the galleries, we encountered art that spoke directly to the issues of feminism, revolution, and the reclaiming of spaces by women artists. Art that highlights the struggles, triumphs, and stories that have often been overlooked in traditional art history.
Modern 1 in Edinburgh is part of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and typically hosts a variety of contemporary exhibitions, featuring both established and emerging artists. It is known for showcasing contemporary works across a range of media including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art. The trip was not only an artistic exploration but also a fantastic learning experience. This helped us understand how art can be used as a tool for social change, and how these women artists have contributed to shifting conversations about identity, power, and resistance.
As we made our way back home, the impact of the Women in Revolt exhibition lingered. The works we had seen encouraged us to think critically about how we view art and the role of women in shaping culture and history. For many of us, this trip not only deepened our appreciation for contemporary art but also inspired us to consider how we can be part of the ongoing conversation about gender, identity, and revolution in the art world and this gave us a unique and empowering look into the powerful contributions of women in art. It was an unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly inspire many of us for years to come in our working practice and ideas.