Widely known as ‘Don Roberto’, Robert Bontine Cunninghame Graham (1852-1936) is best known as the co-founder, with Keir Hardie, of the Scottish Labour Party, forerunner of the modern Labour Party; and later as founding president of the Scottish National Party. But in a long and remarkable life he was also a prolific writer, horseman, traveller, adventurer, visionary, internationalist, and humanitarian.
This two-day event brings together specialists in different aspects of his life and work to build a portrait of one of the most significant, yet overlooked, figures of late 19th and early 20th century Scottish political and cultural life; and to ask the question: what can we learn from him today about Scotland and the wider world?
Saturday speakers from the worlds of literature and academia include leading novelist James Robertson, playwright Chris Dolan, and Professor Alan Riach, Professor of Scottish Literature at Glasgow University (see Agenda for full details).
On Sunday there will be a tour of Gartmore House and grounds, a short talk, and lunch for Saturday ticket-holders who wish to come along. The tour will be led by Robin Cunninghame Graham. He and Lachlan Munro will discuss ‘A Careless Enchantment', their new edited collection of Graham's Scottish sketches.
Please indicate when booking if you wish to attend the Gartmore visit (transport will NOT be provided). You may also wish to visit Inchmahome Island in the afternoon. The crossing costs £10, payable to the boatman.
For full programme details see https://www.smithartgalleryandmuseum.co.uk/product/don-roberto-scotland-international-perspectives/
Tickets
Tickets £33
Saturday programme of talks with eight speakers, lunch and refreshments; optional Sunday visit to Gartmore, talk and lunch (by donation).
The weekend is organised by the Cunninghame Graham Society and hosted by the Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum. It is generously supported by Foundation Scotland, Gartmore House, Gartmore Village Heritage Society and the Tannahill Fund.
