An arty bunch! ‘A Young Look at an Old Town,’ was an exhibition showcasing a collection of original prints made by pupils at Newton and St John’s
Provost Winifred Sloan has opened an art exhibition celebrating the iconic pink buildings on New Bridge Street in Ayr.
Entitled 'A Young Look at an Old Town,' the exhibition showcased a collection of original prints made by pupils at Newton and St John's primary schools, featuring elements from the pink buildings and landmarks in and around the New Bridge area, traditionally known as the 'Gateway to Ayr.'
The exhibition was organised by Ayr Townscape Heritage Initiative, who sponsored local printmaker Ian McNicoll to work with the pupils, helping them choose and draw their favourite features, which were then recreated by the children in multi-coloured inks.
Ian walked the children through the area, pointing out features and suggesting ideas to spark the children's imagination. These were sketched and scribbled, using a variety of media, before becoming final artwork that appears in the dazzling as dazzling prints.
In opening the exhibition, Provost Sloan was also able to tell the pupils that the area they had been drawing and sketching was in line for an exciting refurbishment.
Provost Sloan commented: "The pupils from Newton and St Johns and our inspirational artist Ian, have done an excellent job in capturing the very essence of the buildings in this area, many of which are well over 200 years old. The artwork is simply stunning.
"South Ayrshire Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic Scotland are investing more than £2.5 million for the transformation of the iconic pink buildings through the Ayr Townscape Heritage Initiative, in consultation with the owners."
"The results will be a fitting testament to their architectural importance, augmenting the excellent progress of other work towards the economic and cultural renaissance of the town.
"Ayr is a fantastic town that offers something different for everyone and the transformation of these landmark buildings will have a major impact on this part of town."
"The exhibition has been a superb attraction and I am delighted the work of the pupils will be scanned, stored and preserved for years to come, adding to the important history and legacy behind the Gateway to Ayr."