Research Manager Kirsty MacNab is delighted to announce the loan of collection correspondence, sales receipts, invoices, photographs, and record books, from Colin Tyre and Gillian Brown, the children of The Argyll Collection co-collection founder, Jim Tyre.
These documents provide an invaluable insight into the history and use of the collection, Naomi and Jim’s friendship, their connections in the wider Scottish art scene, and their thoughts on art and artists of the time. Sales receipts, invoices, and letters to galleries and artists themselves help us understand how they built the collection. Jim’s records of school rotations and exhibitions paint a picture not only of how the collection was dispersed but also of the change in schools and populations across the county.
While examining Jim Tyre's private papers, Kirsty also uncovered a letter revealing the title of Henry Tayali's painting. The painting is aptly titled In the Pub, referring to the vibrant, bustling scene that the artist depicts. Read more about this here!
Kirsty has busy scanning the material, ensuring that it continues to be available to CHARTS as our work with the collection develops. This amazing material is vital to better understand this incredible collection.
View Kirsty's talk exploring the Tyre archives at Dunoon Burgh Hall from September 2024.

'In the Pub' by Henry Tayali. Credit The Argyll Collection © The artist’s estate

The Argyll Collection Archives. Archives Courtesy of the Tyre Family

The Argyll Collection Archives. Archives Courtesy of the Tyre Family

The Argyll Collection Archives. Archives Courtesy of the Tyre Family

Kirsty MacNab and The Argyll Collection Archives. Archives Courtesy of the Tyre Family
