Featured Events in Ayr in March 2024 (May Updated)

Experience the captivating reinterpretation of Shakespeare's renowned masterpiece, Antony and Cleopatra, brought to you by the Mandragora Collective. Delve into a profound exploration of love, duty, introspection, and societal pressures in this dynamic performance. Drawing inspiration from influential theater figures like Ostermeier, Meyerhold, and Stanislavski, the Collective offers a fresh perspective by dissecting the characters of Antony and Cleopatra into individual complexities. Witness their innermost thoughts and fears intertwined with those of Enobarbus, Octavia, and Caesar, as Mandragora unravels a new narrative that focuses on the intricate emotions shared between the iconic duo. Catch this groundbreaking theatrical experience at The Grain Exchange in Ayr on March 5, 2024, for a ticket price of only £4. Don't miss this opportunity to witness Antony and Cleopatra like never before, as Mandragora Collective pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

Join award-winning photographer and educator Mike Stone for an enlightening introduction to B&W Darkroom Printing. This comprehensive course is perfect for those who have attended our analogue film processing workshops and want to bring their negatives to life, as well as individuals eager to learn the captivating process of darkroom printing. Held at our state-of-the-art darkroom space in Ayr, you'll become acquainted with the essential equipment, including enlargers, safe lighting, and processing equipment. Our knowledgeable darkroom tutors will guide you through chemical preparation safety and provide step-by-step instruction on the printing process. You'll have the opportunity to print your own images under their expert guidance. All necessary materials and chemistry will be provided, or you can bring your own 35mm negatives or choose from our extensive archive. To ensure an intimate and personalized experience, each session is limited to a maximum of six participants. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity - book your spot early. The course includes a comprehensive itinerary, covering topics such as equipment orientation, the difference between dry and wet side, the importance of safelighting, and selecting a quality negative. You'll also gain valuable insights into black & white processing chemistry and learn about various printing papers. Through hands-on demonstrations and activities, you'll create your own test strip and develop your own print. We'll also cover essential techniques for washing, drying, and finishing your prints. A Q&A session and group discussion will provide an opportunity for further learning and exploration. Don't hesitate - secure your place today! And don't forget to explore our other workshops in photography and darkroom technique.

Experience the exciting world of Photogram Printmaking at the upcoming evening workshop in Ayr. Led by photographer and educator Mike Stone, this session is designed to introduce participants to the creation of Photograms and darkroom practice. Photograms, a cameraless darkroom process, offer a unique opportunity to create abstract photographic compositions using light and shadow. Originating in the 1920s, this graphic technique challenged traditional photography and was popularized by renowned artists such as Man Ray and El Lissitzky. This workshop will provide a brief history of the photogram, an introduction to the darkroom, and an overview of black and white chemistry. Participants will also have the opportunity to observe a demonstration of the photogram creation and processing. Hands-on experience is a central aspect of this workshop, allowing attendees to create their own photograms with materials provided. Additionally, a Q&A session will provide an opportunity to showcase the evening's images and answer any questions. This workshop is suitable for all levels of experience, and all necessary materials will be included. Don't miss out on this special evening of creativity and exploration. Book your ticket now for the Photogram Printmaking Evening Workshop at MAKE by Narture Studios in Ayr.