08 Sep 2025
A stunning new artwork by internationally acclaimed artist, author and broadcaster, Dr Edward H. Chisnall, has been unveiled to mark Glasgow’s 850th birthday.
The limited-edition, A2, fine art print, entitled “Ghlaschu 850”, pays homage to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture – past and present. It is now available for the public to purchase.
Only 500 copies of the poster are being produced, each hand-signed by Dr Chisnall. The prints are available to buy through the official Glasgow Life online shop https://shop.glasgowlife.org.uk/
All proceeds from the sales will go to the Lord Provost’s Charity Fund, supporting good causes across the city.
Dr Chisnall, is a well-respected figure in Glasgow’s cultural heritage. Born in the city in the 1940s, he has spent his life chronicling its stories through art, radio, and print. His celebrated column “The Glasgow Story” ran in the Evening Times throughout the 1990s, blending historical facts with hand-drawn illustrations that captivated readers across generations. His book 'Bell in the Tree: The Glasgow Story' was broadcast three times daily on Radio Clyde in 1990 and remains a cherished piece of local history.
Dr Chisnall created this commemorative artwork inspired by Glasgow 850, a citywide programme of events running throughout 2025 that celebrates Glasgow’s journey from its medieval origins to its modern-day innovation and diversity. The programme includes exhibitions, performances, community projects, and volunteering opportunities — all designed to reflect on and celebrate the city’s past, present and future.
Speaking about the new artwork, Dr Chisnall said:“This poster is my love letter to Glasgow — a city of invention, resilience, and humour. From the Bishop’s Bridge to the Clutha ferry, from Mackintosh’s spires to the Duke with his traffic cone, this is a celebration of our past and a launchpad for our future. I hope it inspires pride and nostalgia in equal measure.”
The artwork is a vibrant montage of Glasgow’s landmarks, characters, and innovations — from the mighty lions of George Square to the whimsical Lobby Dosser and the visionary ‘railplane’. It captures the spirit of a city that has always looked forward, even as it honours its roots.
The Lord Provost of Glasgow, Jacqueline McLaren, praised the artwork, saying; “This beautiful poster is more than just a piece of art — it’s a celebration of who we are as a city. Edward Chisnall has captured the very essence of Glasgow, what makes us unique. I pleased that the proceeds from the poster sales will fittingly go to help those who need it most, in our city.”
Ghlascu from the artwork's title is translated as ‘the sacred place/church (ghlas) of Cu (Kentigern)’ and comes from Cymbric (Old Welsh/Brythonic) roots rather than defaulting to the more commonly assumed Scottish Gaelic derivation of Glaschu.
The poster is printed on high-quality archival paper and includes a key to its many intricate illustrations. It is a collector’s item, a civic keepsake, and a perfect gift for anyone who holds Glasgow close to their heart.
Pictured: Lord Provost and Dr Edward Chisnall with his poster.
