Scotland’s newest museum, The Wyllieum in Greenock, is set to open its second exhibition on Tuesday, showcasing the sculptural work of the renowned artist George Wyllie. This new show, titled ‘A Wee Multitude of Questions: George Wyllie Sculptures,’ offers a comprehensive retrospective of Wyllie’s work, some of which has never been seen in Scotland before.
The museum, which is the first purpose-built gallery to open in Scotland since 2018, aims to provide a snapshot of George Wyllie’s work and the times he lived in. The Chair of The Wyllieum Board, Michael Dale, expressed his excitement about showcasing a range of works by Wyllie and looks forward to welcoming audiences to engage with the art in the new gallery spaces.
The exhibition is not only a treat for those familiar with George Wyllie’s work but also serves as an opportunity for a new generation to connect with the artist’s prolific practice. The museum’s curatorial approach of frequently rotating works on display ensures that Wyllie enthusiasts always have a reason to return. Additionally, a series of education and engagement events will coincide with the new exhibition, providing visitors with a deeper insight into Wyllie’s artistry.
George Wyllie, known for his iconic question mark motif, inspired the name of the exhibition with a poem penned by his friend and poet Liz Lochead. Titled ‘A Wee Multitude of Questions,’ the poem commemorated Wyllie’s 75th birthday in 1996.
The upcoming display at The Wyllieum will exclusively focus on Wyllie’s three-dimensional works, offering a glimpse into his creative process and thematic range. From thought-provoking pieces like HMS Discreet, which highlights nuclear submarines in the Clyde, to whimsical sculptures like the Portable Palm made of chrome car bumpers, visitors can expect a diverse and captivating exhibition.
Situated in Greenock, near Wyllie’s home in Gourock and The Customs House where he worked, The Wyllieum is housed within the Greenock Ocean Terminal Visitor Centre. This purpose-built gallery is part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal project on the town’s waterfront, designed by architect Richard Murphy OBE and officially opened last year.
The £20.1 million project, funded by the UK and Scottish Governments, includes a new pontoon alongside the visitor centre, enhancing the cultural and architectural landscape of Greenock. The strategic location of The Wyllieum pays homage to George Wyllie’s connection to the Clyde and his enduring legacy in the region.
