ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

The Digital Mirror: Wendy McMurdo on Technology and Childhood at National Galleries of Scotland

exhibition · 2026-08-19

At the National Galleries of Scotland, Wendy McMurdo presents 'The Digital Mirror,' showcasing over 50 pieces, which include previously unseen photographs and seldom-exhibited digital animations. Spanning works from 1995 to 2018, the exhibition examines the impact of computers and internet-connected devices on children's education and play. Notable pieces include Boy With Bubble, The Robot Workshop, Algorithmic Girl, Avatar (i), and The Iceberg. McMurdo’s contact sheets provide insight into her creative process, often stemming from workshops. Influential works on display feature Sir Henry Raeburn's Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch and sculptures by Eduardo Paolozzi. An Edinburgh College of Art alumna, McMurdo was the first female photographer elected to the Royal Scottish Academy, coinciding with its bicentenary. The exhibition, which includes a newly configured moving image projection, runs until 25 October.

Key facts

  • Wendy McMurdo's exhibition 'The Digital Mirror' is at National Galleries of Scotland until 25 October.
  • The exhibition features more than 50 works, including never-before-seen photographs and rarely seen digital animations.
  • Works were made between 1995 and 2018.
  • The exhibition explores the impact of the screen on children's lives.
  • Influences include Raeburn's 'Skating Minister' and sculptures by Eduardo Paolozzi.
  • McMurdo was the first woman photographer elected to the Royal Scottish Academy.
  • McMurdo has been a lecturer in Dundee and now teaches photography at Falmouth University.
  • Images courtesy of the artist and Patricia Fleming Gallery, Glasgow.

Entities

Artists

  • Wendy McMurdo
  • Sir Henry Raeburn
  • Eduardo Paolozzi

Institutions

  • National Galleries of Scotland
  • Royal Scottish Academy
  • Patricia Fleming Gallery
  • Falmouth University
  • The Science Museum, London
  • Royal Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh College of Art

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Edinburgh
  • Glasgow
  • Dundee
  • Falmouth

Sources