But, while its collection of fine arts has always been top drawer, it was the art centre’s “blockbuster” exhibitions that truly captured the imagination of the public.
Over the course of the 1980s and 1990s, the City Art Centre regularly attracted crowds of more than 200,000 people to see memorable exhibitions such as the Emperor’s Warriors (1985), Gold of the Pharaohs (1988), and Dinosaurs Alive! (1990).
1. The Emperor's Warriors (1985)
The Emperor's Warrior's exhibition at the City Arts Centre in Edinburgh September 1985. It was the first 'blockbuster' exhibition at the City Art Centre and attracted 221,000 visitors. Photo: Ian Brand
2. Thunderbirds Are Go! (1986)
Gerry Anderson, puppeteer and producer of classic shows such as Thunderbirds, Supercar and Stingray, with a Lady Penelope puppet and 'Brains'-type glasses at the City Arts Centre in Edinburgh, March 1986 Photo: Alan Macdonald
3. Gold of the Pharaohs (1988)
An unidentified female member of staff with the coffin of Psussenes , part of the Gold of the Pharaohs exhibition of ancient Egyptian artifacts at the City Art Gallery in Edinburgh, January 1988. This exhibition attracted an astonishing 447,000 visitors. Photo: Alan Macdonald
4. Dinosaurs Alive! (1990)
Iona Somerville wins a cuddly stegasaurus for being the 100,000th visitor to the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibition at the City Art Centre Edinburgh, April 1990. Photo: Denis Straughan