Welcome to the George Wyllie Archive
George’s art continues to ask questions.
George Wyllie (1921 - 2012) was an extraordinary self-taught artist and a pioneering ‘social sculptor’ whose wildly imaginative creations transformed everyday materials - like steel, stone, wood, and paper - into captivating works of art. With a style he described as ‘seriously playful’, Wyllie’s approach engaged the public and delivered powerful messages that still ignite conversation and inspire.
George was born in Shettleston, Glasgow, on Hogmanay in 1921. The bustling port of the River Clyde influenced his later artwork. During World War II, he served as an engineer in the Royal Navy and visited the devastated city of Hiroshima. After the war, he married Daphne and became a customs officer in Greenock, a job that involved extensive questioning.
In 1965, Wyllie decided it was time for art and entered a four-decade-long career as an artist.
Since George Wyllie's passing in 2012, his family, led by his daughter Louise, along with writer Jan Patience and curator Lynne Mackenzie, has worked to preserve his legacy. They've organised exhibitions, events, schools and community activities, published books, and created a website and social media presence. Notably, they've secured permanent displays of his work at the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Maritime Museum, ensuring George's art continues to inspire future generations.
In 2024, The Wyllieum opened its doors. This vibrant new gallery is all about celebrating the art and life of George Wyllie. Situated on the banks of the River Clyde in Greenock, The Wyllieum is brought to life by the George Wyllie Foundation and is home to an impressive collection of George's sculptures, paintings, and drawings. It's a place worth visiting.
Recently, The Wyllie family has generously expanded access to George's legacy by relocating his archive and personal library, to The Wyllieum. This initiative presents a significant opportunity for us to delve deeper into his art and life.
This extraordinary collection is a veritable treasure trove, brimming with sketchbooks, drawings, photographs, and a fascinating assortment of exhibition invitations, press releases, posters, plans, and proposals—all waiting to be uncovered and explored.
As we delve into the archive, we are excited to share our discoveries. Our hope is that these stories will allow more people to connect with George's work in new and inspiring ways.
George Wyllie’s art continues to ask questions. Now, we ask what is in these boxes?
Find out more:
George Wyllie
Website managed by the George Wyllie estate. georgewyllie.com
The Wyllieum
Find out what’s on and when to visit at wyllieum.com