A NEW virtual tour has make the treasures of Kelvingrove Art Gallery available to online art fans across the globe.

The tour of the gallery can be enjoyed by arts fans around the world.

They will be able to see some of Glasgow's greatest treasures – including Dali's priceless painting of Christ of St John of the Cross and the city's world class collection of arms and armour – any time they like.

The tour features 28 different locations inside and outside the museum and stitches together hundreds of images to give viewers stunning images of the landmark West end building.

It has been created by Scottish-based 360 Virtual Image, and allows the viewer to step inside a virtual gallery.

As well as the Dali, there is also a chance to visit the popular Glasgow Boys and Scottish Colourists galleries, the Spitfire, the main hall's historic Lewis and Co. organ, which is still played every day, and Sir Roger the elephant.

The Kelvingrove virtual tour is the first in a number of similar tours which are currently being produced.

In the coming months, The Burrell Collection, the Emirates Arena, Riverside Museum, the Old Fruitmarket, St Mungo's Museum and the City Halls will be among the venues to be featured.

Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life, said: "Kelvingrove has always been about introducing new audiences to the treasures of Glasgow's collections.

"This virtual tour allows us to showcase the collection in a new way and bring a flavour of one of Scotland's most popular attractions to a global audience."

Fraser MacInnes of 360 Virtual Image, said "Kelvingrove and all the wonders it contains lends itself beautifully to a virtual tour. It will act as a trailer for the treasures visitors can discover for themselves when they come.

"Users can decide for themselves what route to take and what to see, so the tour mirrors a real life visit as closely as possible."

To access the tour, go to www.glasgowlife.org.uk/ museums/kelvingrove/tour/Pages/default.aspx

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk