Falkirk’s Callendar House launches new exhibitions celebrating landscape and industry
Falkirk’s four-star visitor attraction, Callendar House, is set to launch two new free exhibitions this Saturday 2 May, ‘Walk in the Park’ by Joy Bain and ‘Iron and Clay’ by Tom Astbury, bringing together contemporary art and rarely seen archive photography that explore Falkirk’s natural beauty and industrial past.
Running until 16 August 2026, the two new exhibitions offer different but complementary perspectives, with ‘Walk in the Park’ exploring the beauty of Callendar Park, while ‘Iron and Clay’ focuses on the legacy of industries that have shaped Falkirk.
Hailing from Falkirk, Joy Bain’s new exhibition celebrates a place especially close to her heart. The Glasgow based artist spent most of her childhood summers at Callendar Park while staying with her grandmother. ‘Walk in the Park’ captures the changing moods, textures and quiet moments to be found in familiar outdoor spaces, celebrating the wildlife of Callendar Park and exploring how people connect with nature, highlighting its importance to wellbeing.
In contrast, ‘Iron and Clay’ provides a glimpse into Falkirk’s industrial past through rarely seen archive photographs taken between 1979 and 1983. Created by Tom Astbury, a successful cameraman in film and TV, and former photographer for Falkirk Council’s Museum Service, the images capture workers and workplaces at a time of significant change. At its industrial peak, Falkirk was home to more than 60 foundries and 25 brickworks, many of which are documented in the exhibition.
Gillian Smith, Exhibitions Officer at Falkirk Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome these two new free exhibitions to Callendar House. Both offer unique and thought-provoking perspectives on the environments that shape our lives, from the natural beauty of Callendar House, to the industrial heritage that has defined Falkirk for generations. Both offer a rich and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.”
Visitors can make a full day of their visit, exploring the exhibitions alongside Callendar House’s immersive Georgian kitchen experience, scenic walks through Callendar Park and the popular tearoom, which serves seasonal produce and afternoon tea.
Both exhibitions are open from 10am to 4pm every day, except on Tuesdays. They are free of charge. For more information please visit: Exhibitions | Falkirk Museums | Falkirk Council
For more information on this release please contact The Cunningly Good Group on 01738 658187.
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