Iain Banks’ personal archives on exhibit as University of Stirling shares work of its famous alum

Never-before-seen writings and correspondence from author Iain Banks form part of an exhibit at the University of Stirling as it celebrates one of its most celebrated alumni.

The exhibition contains notes by Iain showing his writing process, personal correspondence with fans, fan art inspired by his work, and a poem he wrote as a student at the University of Stirling.

It also features annotated schedules, international translations of Iain’s books, and correspondence with translators.

The exhibition was created by History and Heritage students as part of their Exhibition Interpretation and Design course. The students were granted access to the collection, which was deposited with the University Archives after Banks’ death in 2013 and were set the task of creating a display celebrating the author’s work. 

Iain (M) Banks: Two Authors, One Man launches at a free event in the University of Stirling library on Thursday, April 4 from 4pm to 6pm, and will run until August 30.

Author Iain Banks was a graduate and honorary graduate of the University of Stirling.

Born in Fife, Iain Banks studied English Literature, Philosophy and Psychology at the University of Stirling. He was also a contributor to Brig, Stirling’s student newspaper and later received an honorary degree from the University.

Iain graduated in 1975 and went on to worldwide acclaim as the author of more than 20 published books, including The Wasp Factory, The Bridge and The Crow Road. He wrote literary and science fiction, the latter under the name Iain M. Banks. His Culture series of novels are one of the most influential and prescient works of science fiction of recent times.

Sarah Bromage, Head of University of Stirling Collections, said: “We are delighted to be sharing these never-before-seen items, which give a unique insight into Iain Banks’ writing life and the life of an acclaimed author. Two Authors, One Man is unmissable for anyone interested in his work and in creative writing in general.”