Ayr: Past, Present, Future

An Exhibition Celebrating Ayr's Stories, Creativity and Community

21–24 August 2026
The Auld Toy Shop
25 Newmarket Street, Ayr, KA7 1LL

Join Narture CIC as we celebrate the opening of The Auld Toy Shop with Ayr: Past, Present, Future—a community art exhibition inspired by the town we call home.

Taking its name from Ayr's rich history, vibrant present and exciting future, the exhibition brings together work by local artists and makers responding to the theme in their own unique way. Featuring painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, illustration and more, the exhibition showcases the creativity, talent and stories that make Ayr such a special place.

If you would like to apply to exhibit as part of Ayr: Past, Present, Future; please use the provided application form:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdpMTc1sZLRyUOmE1drbrLkNNLg8B-zj2-BCnXBY-iFx5VBjA/viewform?usp=header

Note that the closing date for applications is Monday 18th August 2026.

Many people remember Beattie's Toy Shop with great affection, and this exhibition marks the beginning of a new chapter for the building as a welcoming space for creativity, learning, play and connection.

The exhibition also celebrates the launch of Narture CIC's Culture Collective project, which will support artists and communities across Ayrshire through creative opportunities and collaborative projects. We also have an open call for socially engaged practitioners to get involved with the project, more info here:

https://forms.gle/jS3MVv6bMegco8nE8

Whether you're an art lover, a supporter of local creativity or simply curious to explore the newly opened space, everyone is welcome to visit.

Launch Event

Friday 21 August 2026
4:00–8:00pm

Celebrate the opening of the exhibition and The Auld Toy Shop with an evening of art, conversation and community. Meet exhibiting artists, learn more about Narture's Culture Collective project, and discover what's planned for the future of this exciting new creative venue.

Exhibition Opening Times

22nd–24th August 2026

10:00-4:00pm

Admission is free.

Contact the host of Ayr: Past, Present, Future