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? Just hit 'Like' on our Facebook page, join the What's On Scotland Facebook Group and 'Follow' on our Twitter account and you're all set!This exhibition showcases some of The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum’s remarkable art collection.
READ MOREDon't miss an exciting night of fiery guitar from Scottish guitar masters Solea, plus support, at The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum on Saturday 20th September!
READ MOREThe Arts Society Stirling & Forth Valley is delighted to welcome back Tim Stimson for the first event of this year's programme on Thursday 18th September!
READ MORECome along to a selection of Charity Talks taking place in Gargunnock Kirk throughout the Autumn!
READ MOREGot a question about dyslexia? Want to find the people and organisations that exist to help you? Then come along to DyslexiFest when it returns to Stirling on Saturday 4th October!
READ MOREInternational crime expert David Swindle brings his gripping live show Murder: A Search for the Truth to The Albert Halls, Stirling on Wednesday 29th October!
READ MOREJoin Brett Tippie at The Albert Halls, Stirling on 5th November and hear stories of his wild and inspiring roller-coaster of a career!
READ MOREIn this fascinating "Evening With", Stewart Copeland will talk about his incredible life as a performer, musician, entertainer, and writer!
READ MOREJoin 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 MOREPrepare for an unforgettable evening of adventure as the Kendal Mountain Tour 2026 comes to the Tolbooth Stirling on Wednesday 25th March!
READ MOREDue 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