The Gallery of Modern Art, popularly known as GoMA, is located in the center of Glasgow, not far from the city's main train station, Glasgow Central. Housed in a stately neo-classical building with a series of Corinthian columns out front, you might well think that this is a very traditional museum - - except for one thing. Immediately outside the museum is an equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington (created in 1844) with a bright orange traffic cone on the Duke's head. Originally put on the statue as a prank, the traffic cone has become a symbol of the irreverent attitude of the art community towards tradition.

Inside, GoMA hosts a changing array of exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The artists represented in these exhibitions come from all over the world. Some have international reputations. However, the focus is often on up and coming artists from Glasgow and the rest of Scotland. Exhibitions include works from the museum's permanent collection as well as works borrowed from other sources.

The building was not built as an art gallery. Originally, in 1778, it was the home of Lord William Cunninghame, who made his fortune as a tobacco trader. The Royal Bank of Scotland resided there for a time and when it left, the building became the Royal Exchange. It was during this period that the Corinthian columns and the coupola were added. Later, the building was used as a library. It became an art museum in 1996.

Because the building was built for other purposes, GoMA has had to find innovative ways to use its space. The gallery space consists of a number of rooms of varyng size spread across three floors. Connecting these floors is an oval-shaped atrium that is also used for exhibiting works such as multi-story high sculptures. In the basement, there is a learning library.

GoMA holds events in connection with its exhibitions, often featuring artists. It also sponsors learning programs.

For more information about visiting, see the Glasgow Life website.

Marking the square where GoMA is located is a statue of the very no-nonsense Duke of Wellington with a traffic cone on his head.

Places to see art ​ - Glasgow, Scotland - GoMA, The Gallery of Moden Art