William Scott Archive and Exhibition opens at Enniskillen Castle celebrating a legacy of art and inspiration

The highly anticipated archive and exhibition William Scott (1913-1989): ‘From Life to Art’ opened at Enniskillen Castle, on Friday 27 September. The archive and exhibition pays tribute to the life and work of one of the most influential artists of this generation, focusing on his connections to Enniskillen – his birthplace – and the relationships, traditions and subjects that would stay with him throughout his life and his career. Scott spent formative years in Enniskillen, receiving his first art lessons from local artist and teacher Kathleen Bridle (1897-1989).

The exhibition’s opening also marks the 100th anniversary of William Scott’s move to his father’s hometown of Enniskillen as a boy of 11.

Scott retained his ties to Enniskillen throughout his life; his parents are buried in Brendrum Cemetery and there is a blue plaque commemorating his life and considerable achievements sited at 2 Queen Street, Enniskillen where the family lived.

Recognising these ties to Enniskillen and in an act of extraordinary generosity, the Estate of William Scott has gifted his archive to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council through Fermanagh County Museum. This archive is a unique and extensive collection of books, objects, ephemera and documents. It was collected by Scott from the beginnings of his career as a young student through to his death. This remarkable donation, now known as The William Scott Enniskillen Archive, represents an invaluable resource and source of inspiration for future generations. It includes William Scott’s easels, art materials and palette, as well as the actual domestic objects – pots and pans and frying pans – represented in his work.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry attended the launch and said;
‘‘We are truly privileged here in Fermanagh and Omagh to have this fantastic exhibition and archive in place. This archive is a true legacy of the life and career of William Scott and, together with the exhibition, it tells his authentic journey which will help people to engage and have a better understanding of his life and working methods.

I am confident that this exhibition and archive will be an inspiration to many, particularly future generations and new and aspiring artists. It demonstrates that if you have a talent, desire and ambition you can be successful.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to promoting and supporting access to the arts and providing encouragement to local artists. Hosting exhibitions by renowned local artists, such as William Scott, helps to achieve this.’’

Robert Scott, son of William Scott was guest-of-honour and spoke at the launch stating,

“William Scott was a modest man, not one for self-publicity, but focused on his art.

He would have been proud today to see the tribute that Fermanagh County Museum has made.”

The exhibition “From Life to Art” is in place until 5 April 2025. An appointment must be pre-booked to consult materials in The William Scott Enniskillen Archive. Educational tours are also available but must be pre-booked. For information and booking contact Enniskillen Castle https://www.enniskillencastle.co.uk/