The commissioning and / or creation of new artworks is a fundamental part of the work of plant taxonomists at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh to discover, describe and allocate scientific names to all plant species. As a result the RBGE Illustrations Collection includes more than 20,000 original artworks as well as historic photographic collections, prints, models and other illustrative material. In addition, permanent and semi-permanent sculptures and installations combine with events and exhibitions to illuminate our core work for visitors.

We have a uniquely well-established track record of engaging with both botanical and contemporary artists, dating to the role of Inverleith House as Scotland’s first national gallery of modern art in the 1960s’s and continues with artists seeking inspiration in the Library, Archives and Herbarium  Collections. Our Arts Strategy builds on this history and connects the arts to scientific and horticultural research and curation at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. We produce critically acclaimed exhibitions that encourage visitors to engage with our immense collections in new ways.

Please get in touch if you’re interested in collaborating with us.