Collective Gallery's 'Game Changer' exhibition in Edinburgh leisure centre explores art in sports venues

The exhibition 'Game Changer' was presented by Collective gallery in Edinburgh, taking place in a gym at a leisure centre with views of a running track, as part of its off-site initiatives. Featured artists included Jacob Dahlgren, Haroon Mirza, Nilbar Güres, and Rachel Adams, showcasing a range of works such as a grid of bathroom scales, a semicircular audiovisual piece, c-print triptychs depicting imaginary gym sports, and a soft sculpture resembling an exercise frame. This project is part of Collective's efforts to engage the public in venues linked to the 1970 and 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh or the 2014 Glasgow Games. Established in August 1984 as an artist-run initiative, Collective transitioned to a professional model in 1990, expanding to eight staff members following Scottish Arts Council pressure. The gallery is moving from its original town site to a Victorian observatory, utilizing this period to promote exploration through audio tours, including contributions from Ruth Ewan and Astrid Johnston. Additionally, newer artist-run spaces like Embassy and Rhubaba have emerged within Edinburgh's art scene. This article was published in October 2013.