The Art of Observation

This exhibition considers still life as a powerful tool for both artists and scientists and includes work by renowned painter Alison Watt, photographer Julie Howden and objects from our scientific collections, held by the University.

Scientists and anatomists have long depended on the power of art to give a legible visual form to knowledge.  Scientific drawing is a crucial skill in various scientific fields, particularly in biology, where it helps in accurately representing observations and data.

This exhibition is part of the University of Stirling Collection's year of Art & Science

About Art & Science Exhibition Series

Each academic year, all of the Collection’s exhibitions, events and workshops are directly inspired by one of the University research themes.  In 2025-26 our chosen focus Art & Science explores the shared communities of practice between artists and scientific researchers: the human quest for visual understanding.

Visiting Us 

This event is open to all and will be held in Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling. The venue is accessible, with blue badge parking to the front and rear of the building. Find out more about our disability access.

If you'd like to discuss access to the galleries and how we might make your visit more accessible, please email us at Art.Collection@stir.ac.uk or phone us at 0178646 6050.

There is car and bike parking to the front and rear of Pathfoot Building, and two electric car charging points to the rear of Pathfoot. Car parking is free for your first two hours on campus, and charged (via Ringgo) after that. Visit our getting here page for more travel information.

About the University of Stirling Collections

The University of Stirling Collections are a collection of Scottish contemporary art and museum objects, housed primarily in the Pathfoot Building. Our aim is to make art and culture a part of daily life for students, staff and visitors. We do this through exhibitions, events, talks and tours that are open to all.