Thread by @mailley_watt

A thread on the historical importance of 5 Blythswood Sq. The building was the home to The Glasgow Society of Lady Artists (est.1882) in an attempt to combat sexism in Scotland’s art scene. The society moved to the building in 1895 & purchased it in 1896. Image from 2018.

An important space for women to gather, exhibit, socialise, train & hold meetings. The clubhouse allowed women their own space as many clubs such as the Art Club did not allow women to become members. This did not change until the 1983.

To raise funds for the purchase of the building & a new extension the society held a ‘Fancy Fair’ in a Tudor Style in 1895. A big party with stalls, entertainments & speeches. The women running the stalls dressed in 'period clothing' or in fancy costumes.

Several well-known artists, architects & prominent #glasgow figures helped to create the festivities including George Walton, Sir Francis Powell, Agnes Raeburn*, Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh* & Charles Rennie Mackintosh* (*all pictured). Image: @GSAArchives

The funds raised from the four-day event allowed the society to pay for a new extension featuring stained glass, custom picture gallery & a large stone fireplace with a Medusa head all designed by George Walton (1867-1933) & Fred Rowntree (1860-1927).

In 1908 further renovations to the building included a custom interior scheme for the hall(wallpaper/painted) & black exterior door by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. This is the black door which can still be viewed today (the condition is not great). Image from 2018.

In 1929 the architect Edith Burnet Hughes (1888-1971), who is referred to as the society’s ‘own architect’ undertook further renovations to the clubhouse. Over 50 years at least 4 important Scottish architects have left their mark, in some way, on the building.

Find out more about Hughes here: scottisharchitects.org.uk/architect_full…

So, it could be argued that this is an important piece of architectural history even before we discuss the social history. The list is long and many strong-willed women (artists, actors, writers, doctors, teachers, activists) passed through the doorway of the clubhouse.

Artists such as Jessie M. King, Ann Macbeth, Norah Neilson Gray, De Courcy Lewthwaite Dewar, Jessie Newbery, Helen Paxton Brown & Annie French. All known referred to by that dated term ‘Glasgow Girls.’ Architects Margaret Brash Brodie & Edith Burnet Hughes were also members.

@bolandeva, @ChristyMearns &
@MurphyNiallGLA what can people do to help safe/support this important building? I’ll be sending emails to you all today.

@LostGlasgow @PastGlasgow any ideas?

@GLAMackintosh @willowtearooms you aware of the damage to the building & doorway of 5 Blythswood Sq?