GoMA!

A beautiful building, and one I know dear to my friend, practised brush strokes perfected in days gone by in this most beautiful of squares in the heart of Glasgow, another special place.

Peculiar to Glasgow it seems is the tradition of setting major public buildings within built up squares, this was the mansion house of William Cuninghame one of the richest of Glasgow's tobacco lairds. Encapsulated within Hamilton's grand Royal Exchange now right in the middle of the main shopping area and surrounded by swish shops the former home with its magnificent temple front would have been a striking site when built and remains so today; brought up to date by the mirrored pediment by artist Nikki de St. Phalle, I am usually a traditionalist when it comes to architecture but strangely I love this addition.

Gallery of Modern Art; GoMA, as it's known locally, has four floors of contemporary painting, sculptures and installations from around the world. Recent acquisitions include works by artists Christine Borland and Toby Paterson. The gallery also offers an outstanding programme of temporary exhibitions. The Educational Studio has an active education programme for all ages whilst the basement houses the Learning Library, complete with café, free internet access terminals, Wifi access, multimedia and general book lending facilities and is well worth an afternoon of your time if you have never been, even if modern art is not your bag!!!

GoMA also houses Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Services, they are the most amazing organisation offering anyone affected by cancer, including patients, relatives, carers and friends, a free and confidential service with access to high quality information and support, in a relaxed, comfortable environment in their local community. The work they do is often unseen but invaluable to those who are in need at often the lowest ebb in their life.

In the foreground is Wellington, on his favourite horse and for Glasgow the obligatory traffic cone on his head, not to be out done, his horse Copenhagen also benefits from a smaller cone of his own.

I hope you enjoy the shot and if you are in Glasgow please take time to visit this gallery, you wont be disappointed