We programme, develop and present world-class exhibitions, commissions, publications, performances, events and engagement activities, opening up the artistic process. Creativity makes space for meaning, and we create a welcoming space for people to think with contemporary art and culture in ways that are helpful to them – for free.
Fruitmarket has always been a place for people to come together and learn about the world through art and conversation. Since the inaugural show opened in August 1974 at a brave new public venue down by Waverley Station, some of the art world’s most famous and best-respected names have exhibited here: from Jean-Michel Basquiat – the critics weren’t quite ready for him – to David Hockney, Max Ernst, Louise Bourgeois, Gilbert & George, Phyllida Barlow, Gabriel Orozco, Yoko Ono, and Marina Abramović. And over the years Scottish artists have more than held their own alongside those from elsewhere, including Turner prize winners Martin Boyce and Martin Creed; and Alison Watt, Karla Black, Christine Borland, Nathan Coley, and Callum Innes.
Fruitmarket has always been ambitious, bringing the internationalism of contemporary art – whether made in Scotland or Zimbabwe – right into the heart of Edinburgh. This Summer we are showing the first-ever solo exhibition in Scotland of the work of Ibrahim Mahama; an Ghanaian artist critically acclaimed for his evocative large-scale, site-specific installations that speak to the cultural and social effects of post-colonialism and global migration.
In 2021 we reopned after a redevelopment that enabled us to double in size, improving visitor services and access and to open wonderful new spaces. Our renovated Warehouse is an impressive double storey of raw steel and brick perfect for hosting dance, theatre, sculpture, cabaret, film, live music, makers’ markets and club nights, growing into a wonderful new public platform for artists and partners across the city. There is always something interesting happening at Fruitmarket and we hope you will visit during your time in Edinburgh.
Open 7 days
Bookshop and Cafe 9am—6pm
Exhibition spaces 11am—6pm
