Scotland has an acclaimed history in scientific and medical discoveries, but there is more to these narratives than meets the eye. A hidden history revealed when explored under the lens.
Join us in the Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland as we use art and hands-on exploration to delve deeper into Scotland’s scientific history.
The Great Instauration
The Great Instauration (2026) is a newly commissioned installation by artist Gayle Chong Kwan which connects scientific instruments with the stories of oppression, exploitation, and slavery behind some of the Scottish Enlightenment’s scientific revelations.
The installation stands throughout our Grand Gallery – see scientific instruments transformed into fantastical roots, hanging fabric of Edinburgh’s geology with archival and painted images, and steel plinths inscribed with lesser-known histories.
Presented by Edinburgh Science
Hands-on Exploration
Visitors can experiment with some of the instruments which inspired the research behind the art installation, make your own versions to take home, and play with the science of light. Younger visitors can use art to tell their own science stories, exploring how light works, and the power of story in sharing information.
Presented by Edinburgh Science
The National Museum of Scotland team will be hosting family experiences throughout the Festival – visit nms.ac.uk for up-to-date details on activities.
