Milngavie comic exhibition to feature Oor Wullie and Rupert the Bear

The Comics Stripped! display at the Lillie Art Gallery focuses on comic strips and creators, and will run until August 15.

It includes a free display that goes behind the scenes of some of the most iconic creations and Scotland’s pivotal role.

This exclusive expanded version of the exhibition was previously shown only in Dundee.

‘Comics Stripped!’ delves into the creation and evolution process of comic strips, ranging from artwork, printing plates, and corrections to colour proofs.

(Image: DC Thomson & Co Ltd)

It presents works from both major publishers and independent artists, with original works featuring characters like Oor Wullie, Judge Dredd, and Rupert the Bear.

For more venue information, call 0141 956 5536 or visit www.edlc.co.uk/venues/lillie-art-gallery.

Karin Jackson, general manager of East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust, said: “Scotland has played a crucial role in the development of comics over the years, particularly due to the dominance of Dundee firm DC Thomson & Co Ltd, publishers of The Beano, now one of the world’s longest-running comics.

“This free exhibition features many examples of work by DC Thomson artists and other important Scottish creators – including 2000AD and Judge Dredd legend Colin MacNeil, famous Oor Wullie artist Dudley D Watkins and the late David Sutherland, who drew The Bash Street Kids for an incredible 61 years.

“As well as the comic art on show, the exhibition also includes fine works by contemporary Scottish artists who have been inspired by the medium of comics.”

(Image: Rebellion)

The exhibition, co-curated by Matthew Jarron, the curator of the University of Dundee Museums, and aided by comics creator and lecturer Zu Dominiak, showcases an assorted collection from the University of Dundee Museums, Scotland’s only public museum with a collection of original comic art.

A bonus inclusion in the exhibition at the gallery is a display of the Young People’s Exhibition 2024 featuring illustrations and creations from up-and-coming artists who have participated in the EDLC Trust’s Get Creative Saturday Art Classes.