ÐÔÊӽ紫ý graduates showcased in new Inverness art exhibition

Work by University of the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands (ÐÔÊӽ紫ý) graduates is being celebrated in a new exhibition opening at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday 14 February 2026.

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Photo of 'What a Pair' diptych by Erin Matheson

‘The New Highland Graduates’ exhibition returns after a 10-year break and features work by 10 emerging artists who graduated between 2022 and 2025, seven of whom studied at ÐÔÊӽ紫ý. Selected through an open call, the exhibition highlights the strength and diversity of contemporary creative practice emerging from the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands.

The artists work across a wide range of media, responding to the culture, geography and lived experience of the region.

ÐÔÊӽ紫ý graduates exhibiting in the show include Codie Anne (ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Inverness), Seasaidh Cat (Moray School of Art, ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Moray), Erin Matheson (Moray School of Art, ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Moray), Jan McCormack (Moray School of Art, ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Moray), Natalie Rattray (ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Inverness), Donald Ellis Ross (Moray School of Art, ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Moray) and Katy MacLachlan (ÐÔÊӽ紫ý North, West and Hebrides). Other participating artists are Caitlin Allison, Alexandra Smart and Mark Faulkner.

Kirsten Body, High Life Highland’s Visual Arts Curator at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, said:

“Here at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, inclusivity means creating space for many voices, lived experiences and ways of seeing the world. These exhibitions celebrate artists who reflect the richness and diversity of our communities, and we are committed to ensuring everyone can see themselves represented, valued and welcomed here.”

Erin Matheson, one of the graduate exhibitors who now works at ÐÔÊӽ紫ý as a Digital Content Officer, said:

“I am honoured to have been selected as one of the 10 emerging artists to showcase a selection of my artwork, which reflects my engagement with the culture and geography of the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands. This is not only a wonderful opportunity to present my work, but also to connect and network with fellow artists.”

A preview event will be held on Friday 13 February from 6pm to 8pm and is open to all, with no booking required. The exhibition runs until 4 April 2026.

For more information about the exhibitions please email Kirsten Body or call: 07751 020458.