Up in smoke: a history of smoking

Samuel John Peploe (1871-1935), Self portrait of the artist pictured smoking a cigarette, oil on canvas, 47,5 x 30,5 cm (unframed), Fife Cultural Trust Collections.

Since the importation of tobacco from the New World to Europe in the 16th century, smoking has been a hot topic. The perception of smoking has drastically shifted from its glorification in the 19th century to the reveal of its health-related issues in modern times.

Through a combination of art, literature, advertising and movies, this exhibition highlights smoking as a social practice, focusing on the period from the 1800s onwards. Travel back in time to see the glorious past of tobacco and witness its decline.

Exhibition developed by nine students from the MLitt Museum & Gallery Studies of the University of St Andrews, under the supervision of the Fife Cultural Trust.