Welcome to the QMU150: Online Art Exhibition

As part of the programme of activities to mark our 150th anniversary, we commissioned East Lothian artist, Martha Ellis, to design and create a unique public artwork, to take centre stage in the grounds of the University. 

This project has been made possible by donations from members of the QMU community. We hope you enjoy this online exhibition which accompanies the artwork. You might even recognise some of the figures!

You can visit the artwork itself in the grounds of our campus, close to the ornamental pond. Everyone is most welcome.

More about this QMU150 Public Art Commission

More about Martha Ellis and the creative process

Blog post: Bringing the sculpture to life - from sketches to steel

You can find out more about each exhibit by clicking on the individual exhibit tiles.

Graphic representing QMU Community

During the Musselburgh Festival in summer 2024, Martha had a stall to showcase her work and plans for the 150th anniversary sculpture. This provided Martha with a wonderful opportunity to capture the local community who regularly visit the QMU campus. 

Exhibit: Involving the local community and alumni
Graphic showing QMU archive

As part of her creative process, Martha had the pleasure of exploring the QMU archives, uncovering stories spanning the University’s 150-year history - she took inspiration from photos she found to create drawings of people from QMU’s past.

Exhibit: Inspirations from the University Archive
Graphic for QMUSU

QMU offers a vibrant range of activities, support services, and events - many of which are brought to life by the Students' Union. This collection of drawings only scratches the surface of the rich & diverse experiences available to students at QMU.  

Exhibit: Capturing student life
Graphic representing QMU staff

This collection of drawings highlights a vital group of people - those who bring QMU to life each and every day through their hard work and dedication. It's a celebration of the individuals who make the University what it is! 

Exhibit: Celebrating QMU Staff
Graphic representing ASSAM

As part of her research, Martha explored the dynamic world of the School of Arts, Social Sciences and Management (ASSAM), gaining insight into the diverse range of subjects, perspectives, and experiences it offers. 

Exhibit: Arts, Social Sciences & Management
Graphic Representing QMU Health Sciences

Martha had the opportunity to attend QMU’s 2024 Healthfest - a vibrant health science festival designed to give school pupils a glimpse into the wide range of healthcare and health science degrees offered at the University.  

Exhibit: School of Health Sciences

Other information you might like

B+W photo of a kitchen full of women in Edwardian style chef's whites
History
QMU staff and friends with the big Ted-X sign
News and Events
A group of cheerful students at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
Alumni and Friends
Some QMU students walking on campus
Study Here