For the month of August, Edinburgh's leading galleries, museums and artist-run spaces present an innovative programme of special events – most of which are free to attend. The festival also includes new public art commissions by established and emerging artists.
Edinburgh Art Festival (EAF) combines ambitious presentations of contemporary and historic art from Scotland and around the world. The 2019 edition of the festival featured a characteristically eclectic line-up with highlights including the first-ever Scottish solo shows from Samson Young and Grayson Perry.
The 17th edition brings together over 35 exhibitions and new commissions in visual art spaces across the city, complemented by an online programme of events and digital presentations.
Platform, the festival's dedicated showcase for artists in the early stages of their careers, each year introduces audiences to a new generation of contemporary artists based in Scotland.
Another of this year's highlights will be the UK premiere of Isaac Julien’s Lessons of Hour, in partnership with National Galleries Scotland. This new ten-screen film installation by internationally acclaimed British filmmaker Isyaac Julien, offers a poetic meditation on the life and times of black American emancipationist, Frederick Douglass.
History
Edinburgh Art Festival was founded to shine a light on art during Edinburgh’s festival period, when theatre, opera, music and comedy traditionally take centre stage. Supporting both leading and emerging talent has always played a key role, as has ensuring that a complementary education programme enhances the experience through workshops, tours and school projects.
Offering free events and commissioning artworks that respond to public and historic sites in the city have also always been a major part of the festival.