28 August 2008

James Maclaren: Dundee Architect

New exhibition: Tower Foyer, University of Dundee
Until September 22nd.

The work of one of the leading architects of Victorian Dundee forms the basis of a new exhibition at the University of Dundee.

James Maclaren (1829-1893) helped shaped Dundee in the 19th century with designs of several of its best known buildings, many of which are still standing today.

Among Maclaren’s designs which can still be seen around Dundee are Cox’s Stack, Grove Academy, the Orchar Gallery and Ashludie Hospital. He also designed the headquarters of the Alliance Trust in Reform Street.

The exhibition, which is presented by the University’s Museum Services, has been curated to mark the donation to the School of Architecture of Maclaren’s Soane Medallion (one of the most prestigious prizes of its day) by his great great grand-daughter.

'The medallion will be on show as the centrepiece of the exhibition, which also includes copies of plans and drawings by Maclaren such as the original designs for Cox’s Stack,' said Matthew Jarron, curator.

'It also looks at the work of Maclaren’s sons, who carried on the practice into the 20th century, and his nephew David, who was one of the architects appointed to design the original buildings for the university.'

The exhibition is on show until 22 September in the Tower Foyer gallery at the University, Perth Road. Admission is free.

For further information, contact Matthew Jarron on 01382 384310 or museum@dundee.ac.uk.

NOTES TO EDITORS
Image supplied: Plan, elevation and cross sections of Camperdown Chimney Shaft (better known as Cox’s Stack) by James Maclaren 1865, courtesy of University of Dundee Archive Services

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University of Dundee
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