Inside the custom designed gallery space for The Glasgow Society of Lady Artists (GSLA) at 5 Blythswood Square since 1895.The building was the home to The Glasgow Society of Lady Artists (est.1882) in an attempt to combat sexism and misogyny in Scotland’s art scene. it was also a great place to socialise and relax.

Many notable artists were members of GSLA including Jessie M. King (1875-1949), De Courcy Lewthwaite Dewar (1878 -1959), Ann Macbeth (1875-1948), Norah Neilson Gray (1882-1931), Grace Wilson Melvin (1896-1977) and Bet Low (1924-2007).

5 Blythswood Square was an important space for women to gather, exhibit, socialise, train & hold meetings. The clubhouse allowed women their own space as many clubs such as the Glasgow Art Club did not allow women to become members. This regulation did not change at the Glasgow Art Club until 1983.

Although renting 5 Blythswood Square from 1892, GSLA wished to own the building. To raise funds for the purchase of the building & a new extension the society held a ‘Fancy Fair’ in a Tudor Style in 1895. A big party with stalls, entertainments & speeches. The women running the stalls dressed in ‘period clothing’ or in fancy costumes.

Several well-known artists, architects & prominent Glasgow figures helped to create the festivities including George Walton, Sir Francis Powell, Agnes Raeburn, Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh & Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The funds raised from the four-day event allowed the society to pay for a new extension with custom gallery and a large stone fireplace with a Medusa head all designed by George Walton (1867-1933) & Fred Rowntree (1860-1927).

GSLA stayed at 5 Blythswood Square until the 1970s when it was purchased by the Scottish Arts Council.