The Stirling Heads offer a unique face-to-face encounter with the most important men and women at the court of James V. In some cases, the Head is their only surviving portrait. In a compelling twist, these enigmatic artworks often include symbols and metaphors. Dr Rush, a consultant during the restoration of the royal palace at Stirling Castle, introduces the cast of characters depicted in the Stirling Heads and explains the reasoning behind their identification and interpretation.
About Sally Rush (she / her)
Sally is a Senior Lecturer in History of Art at the University of Glasgow. She first worked with Historic Environment Scotland at Glasgow Cathedral as a specialist in the history of glass painting, and then, in 2003, joined the team of consultants advising on the restoration of the royal palace at Stirling Castle. Her primary contribution to the project was the identification and interpretation of the Stirling Heads and exterior sculptures.
All lectures take place at the Smith, at Albert Place, Stirling, on Wednesdays at 7.30pm (doors open 7pm)
Where possible we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events, however we STRONGLY ADVISE that you check with the venue/organiser in the first instance for updates.
All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.GOT AN EVENT TO SHARE? It's free to post your events on What's On Stirling, click here to find out more!
Want to be the first to hear about what's happening in Stirling? Follow us on Facebook and join the What's On Scotland Group!This exhibition showcases some of The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum’s remarkable art collection.
READ MORE
Gnosis Scotland is offering a free course in practical, esoteric Self-knowledge on Tuesdays at the Raploch Community Campus in Stirling.
READ MORE
Join us at St Ninians Library on Thursday 20th November as we welcome bestselling rom-com author Fiona Gibson!
READ MORE
The Arts Society Stirling & Forth Valley presents this lecture on Life in Britain as seen in 1960 films at The Albert Halls on 20th November!
READ MORE
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from one of Scotland’s most inspiring voices in conservation, renowned wildlife writer, naturalist, and photographer Polly Pullar!
READ MORE
Writer and climber Anna Fleming shares the journey behind her acclaimed book Time on Rock, tracing her development as a climber on the diverse crags of the UK.
READ MORE
This talk at The Albert Halls ranges from Dickensian Christmas stories to Traditional Victoria Christmas activities and the inspiration for ghost stories at Christmas.
READ MORE
Join legendary climber Leo Houlding for his next new show, Exposed, a gripping live experience with stunning visuals, film, and storytelling from the world’s wildest places.
READ MORE
Alice Morrison shares stories of the people she encountered, a country fiercely proud of its past and optimistic about its future amid a cultural revolution, particularly regarding the role of women.
READ MORE
Due to phenomenal demand, award winning wildlife photographer and filmmaker Gordon Buchanan will hit the road again in 2026. Join him at Macrobert Arts Centre on Wednesday 4th March!
READ MORE