The Paisley Art Institute is a Scottish art organisation founded in 1876. As well as presenting annual exhibitions, the institute has built up a substantial collection of 450 works by Scottish and international artists.[1] [2]
Works from the collection were for many years on public view in Paisley Museum and Art Galleries, whose galleries were also the institute's annual exhibiting space.[1] [3]
The art historian Kenneth Clark, whose family wealth was derived from the town's Clark Thread Company, served as honorary vice president between 1965 and 1983.[4]
Following the temporary closure of Paisley Museum and Art Galleries for redevelopment, the OneRen agency offered only a small space for permanent and temporary exhibition in the refurbished building, which the Institute decided was unacceptable.[2] Renfrewshire Council have also sought £10,000 per year from the institute to continue storing the Collection.[5] As a result of the dispute, in 2024 the institute's exhibition was held in the premises of Glasgow Art Club.[2]
The Paisley Art Institute has announced its decision to make its homebase at 185 Bath Street, Glasgow sharing the premises of Glasgow Art Club.[6] [7]