Glasgow's Buchanan Galleries unveils preview of Scottie art trail

Buchanan Galleries has launched an artist studio space, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the upcoming Scotties in the City project before it officially begins.

Launching in June 2026, the public art trail will see more than 30 artist-designed Scottie dog sculptures installed across Glasgow in parks, streets and public areas.

Each sculpture will be individually decorated by artists from Scotland and beyond, celebrating the city’s creative spirit in support of the cancer charity Maggie’s.

In the lead-up to the official launch, the studio has opened on the first floor of Buchanan Galleries, beside Picturesmania.

Visitors can pop in to watch artists at work and enjoy an exclusive early look at several of the sculptures.

Lochie, the first Scottie Dog in the trail created by Glasgow artist Douglas Roulston (Image: Martin Shields)

Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: "The artist studio gives visitors a rare opportunity to see the creativity and craftsmanship behind these remarkable sculptures as well as a sneak peek of what’s to come this summer.

"Glasgow is a city full of personality, humour and heart, and this project celebrates that spirit brilliantly.

"We can’t wait for our very own Scottie to take up residence within Buchanan Galleries, and for the wider community to be able to undertake the trail when it officially launches in June."

Buchanan Galleries is a lead sponsor of the trail and has selected a Scottie sculpture that will take up residence within the centre.

The sculpture, named Glasgow Salad, is designed by mural artist Emma Mary Batman Barnie, known professionally as Barnie.

It will be unveiled alongside Lochie, the first Scottie Dog in the trail created by Glasgow artist Douglas Roulston, when the trail launches in June.

Barnie said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be part of Scotties in the City in support of Maggie’s.

"My sculpture is a joyful celebration of Glasgow’s character, humour and vibrant personality.

"I’ve had so much fun weaving together elements that nod to the city’s quirks, culture and creative spirit, and I can’t wait for people to discover the details up close.

"It’s been a real privilege to bring a little slice of Glasgow to life in my own way.

"I’m excited to unveil my finished Scottie sculpture as part of the wider art trail this summer."

Mural artist, Barnie, pictured painting her Scottie sculpture 'Glasgow Salad' ahead (Image: Supplied)

The project is raising funds for Maggie’s, the cancer support charity that offers free, expert care through centres across the UK and abroad.

Maggie’s was founded in 1996 upon the death of Maggie Keswick Jencks, who used her own experience of living with cancer to create a new type of cancer care.

The charity currently operates a centre in Glasgow, offering support to those who have been diagnosed with cancer from specialists, some NHS-trained, who have expert knowledge about cancer and treatment.