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Events/Workshops
LEARN.EXPLORE.CREATE.
Unbekent Artist’s in Residence Project:
Exploring Hidden Histories and Working-Class Culture
By Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott
14th January – 23rd February 2025
This exhibition delves into the often-overlooked stories of working- and lower-class history and culture from the Middle Ages to the present day. Central to the narrative is the transformative aftermath of the Black Death (1348–1351), which marked the end of medieval rural life and paved the way for the early modern urban era. This shift brought both empowerment and oppression: lower-class mobility and freedoms were countered by strict vagrancy laws, public punishment, and land enclosure. The era also saw the witch hunts, targeting women and reproduction, and the horrors of the Atlantic slave trade.
At the same time, a rich and distinct lower-class culture began to flourish, expressed through fairs, festivals, charivari, chapbooks, and taverns. The exhibition also shines a spotlight on Ayrshire’s lesser-known history, including the lives of servants, smugglers, and forgotten local figures, weaving these stories into a broader tapestry of resilience and resistance.
Tues - Sat 10am 3pm
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, Ayr
Triratna Buddhist Group
Weekly from 6.30pm - 8.30pm
The aim of the group is to help it's members explore the Buddha's teachings and meditate together in a relaxed, friendly space. The first part of our meetings will be to learn and practice our two core meditation practices, the Mindfulness of Breathing and the Metta Bhavana, followed by an exploration of the foundational teachings of the Buddha.
Free/ Donations welcome - Book in by emailing to RSVP: dh.karunaradha@gmail.com
Narture Studios, 34 Newmarket St, Ayr
Eckhart Tolle Meditation Group
First Sunday of every month 2 - 5pm
Embark on a journey of enlightenment with our esteemed collective, dedicated to the profound wisdom of Eckhart Tolle. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the transformative teachings, coming together to engage in shared meditation and communal reflection.
Free/ Donations welcome - Book in by emailing to RSVP: aurorearnould92@gmail.com
Narture Studios, 34 Newmarket St, Ayr
Satsang with Irfan
Weekly on Saturdays 2 - 4pm
The opportunity to meet with an awakened being is rare. Satsang, meaning to abide in Being, is the space to associate with the transmission of Presence. You need make no effort, just allow what is to be as it is; the transmission does all the work. Satsang is the moment for direct experience of the truth of non-duality - that you are Consciousness, and Consciousness is all there is. Satsang is our own being meeting itself in an apparent other. There is nothing to do and nothing to attain. You are already free. Welcome to Satsang.
Saturdays, 2-4pm Narture Studios (Top buzzer for the wellbeing studio)
No need to book, but for more information:
Email: irfan@merchantayurveda.co.uk or
WhatsApp: 07981 201110
Satsang is offered free, donations are welcome.
Narture Studios 34 Newmarket St, Ayr
Artist Talk by Stuart Murphy
Sun 2nd February, 4pm - 5pm
An introduction to my work which covers working and lower class history and culture from the middle ages up until the present day, applying particular focus to the aftermath of the Black Death (1348-1351), which more or less ended the medieval (rural) way of life and made way for the early modern (urban) era which saw lower class empowerment, but at the same time a clampdown on lower class mobility and freedom through public humiliation and punishment, as well as strict vagrant and labour laws. This new era also witnessed a massive increase in land enclosure, a state-sponsored war on women and reproduction (the witch hunts), and the brutal and violent Atlantic slave trade. A more pronounced lower class culture through fairs, festivals, charivari, chapbooks and taverns evolved from this aftermath too. As the title suggests, I will also talk about the Ayrshire I have grown up and lived in, provide an insight into the more under documented aspects of its working class history such as the life of servants and smugglers of Ayrshire, and introduce biographies of some of Ayrshire's forgotten individuals.
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, Ayr
Film Screening Evening by Clemens Wilhelm
Thurs 30th January, 7:30pm - 9pm
Dive into the thought-provoking world of filmmaker Clemens Wilhelm with this specialfilm program at Narture:
In THIS FILM IS SECRET, a narrator reflects on one of humanity's darkest moments, grappling with themorality of biological warfare during WWII, while facing his own personal struggles in lockdown. A stunning meditation on history, ethics, and the unseen burdens of the past, this film ends with the birds’ call of hope: “Poo-Tee-Weet.”
KIKI THE WAR DOG tells the incredible true story of a black-and-white foxterrier who journeys through WWII, transitioning from soldier to pacifist. Kiki’s story challenges our perceptions of war, peace, and theanimal spirit within us all.
Finally, in A HORSE WITH WHEELS, Wilhelm explores the origins of art, the Ice Age, and the link between humanity’s first carvings and our modern brains. Shot across breathtaking landscapes, this film asks: Have we really changed since our ancestors created the first “useless tool”?
Join us for a powerful cinematic experience that blends history, philosophy, and nature—narrated with Wilhelm’s unique perspective.
Narture Studios, 34 Newmarket St, Ayr
Collage Workshop (as part of Unbekent residency)
Sat 1st February, 4pm - 6pm
Join artists Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott for an informal workshop exploring the artform of collage. We will look at different techniques with various media. Materials will be provided. You will have the opportunity to experiment in a supportive environment and create some collage artworks to take home.
This project is part of the Unbekent residency project with Narture which runs throughout January and February. Artists Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott will use the Make studio as the base for their Unbekent project for six weeks. The project focuses on working class and underclass history, persecuted individuals and lesser known Ayrshire history in general. All events are offered on a sliding-scale basis to make participation more accessible.
In this workshop, we’ll also delve into the storytelling potential of collage. By combining imagery, textures, and text, you’ll have the chance to create pieces that reflect personal narratives or reinterpret historical themes tied to the Unbekent project. Whether you’re new to collage or an experienced artist, this session encourages exploration, dialogue, and creative play, offering a unique way to connect with Ayrshire’s rich, lesser-known histories.
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, Ayr
Hidden Histories of Ayrshire-Talk by Artist Stuart Murphy
Sat 8th February, 4pm - 5pm
Join artist Stuart Murphy for an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of Ayrshire’s lesser-known working-class history. Building on insights from his previous talk, Stuart will uncover fascinating stories of resilience, rebellion, and perseverance.
Discover the life of Covenanter preacher Alexander Peden, whose defiance against religious persecution made him a local legend. Learn about the lives of the Tattie Howkers, seasonal agricultural workers who shaped the rural economy but often faced harsh conditions. Dive into the story of Marjory Newbold, a trailblazing socialist and activist whose contributions to women’s and workers’ rights deserve far more recognition. Alongside these, Stuart will reveal even more hidden figures and events that illuminate Ayrshire’s rich and complex history.
This talk offers a fresh perspective on Ayrshire’s past, shining a light on the ordinary people whose extraordinary lives left a lasting impact.
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, Ayr
Printmaking Workshop (as part of Unbekent Residency)
Sat 15th February, 2pm - 4pm
Join artists Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott for an informal workshop exploring the artform of printmaking. We will look at lino printing, collagraph printing and monoprinting. Materials will be provided. Techniques will be demonstrated and examples shown. You will be able to take your hand printed artwork home with you.
This project is part of the Unbekent residency project with Narture which runs throughout January and February. Artists Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott will use the Make studio as the base for their Unbekent project for six weeks. The project focuses on working class and underclass history, persecuted individuals and lesser known Ayrshire history in general. All events are offered on a sliding-scale basis to make participation more accessible.
This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the expressive possibilities of printmaking while connecting with local stories and themes. As you experiment with differnt printmaking techniques, you'll uncover how these traditional methods can bring contemporary and historical narratives to life. Whether you’re inspired by Ayrshire’s hidden histories or wish to express your own ideas, this hands-on session is a perfect space for creativity and experimentation.
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, Ayr
Blue Gowns” Life Drawing Class
Sat 22nd February, 2pm - 4pm
Join artists Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott for a life drawing class inspired by the Blue Gown wearing beggars from Scottish history. Various poses of different lengths. Tuition available on request. Materials not provided, please bring your own paper and sketching tools. Please note that the model is clothed in a draped blue cloak.
This project is part of the Unbekent residency project with Narture which runs throughout January and February. Artists Stuart Murphy and Rebecca Scott will use the Make studio as the base for their Unbekent project for six weeks. The project focuses on working class and underclass history, persecuted individuals and lesser known Ayrshire history in general. All events are offered on a sliding-scale basis to make participation more accessible.
This class offers a unique blend of art and history, drawing inspiration from the evocative imagery of the Blue Gown beggars. Through guided poses and optional tuition, you’ll not only hone your life drawing skills but also explore themes of resilience, identity, and the stories of marginalised individuals in Scottish history. This is a rare chance to create meaningful art in a reflective and supportive environment.
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, Ayr
The Reshape Club
19th February - 12th March, 6:30pm - 8pm
Come and join our 4-week programme, The Reshape Club, where you will discover how to use nutrition and lifestyle to maintain a healthy weight and feel more energised!
Over the 4 weeks we will cover:
How to use nutrition to help nourish the body, to stop cravings and fatigue
Ways to sleep better to support weight balance and to help supercharge your energy levels
How to relax to feel more at ease, reduce stress and feel happier
Mindful movement tips for a stronger body and mind
You will receive worksheets to help you create new habits and keep you on track, lots of delicious recipes, a shopping list to get you started and a meal planner, as well as learn about herbs and essentials oils that you can use in your daily routine.
Each week you will get to try herbal teas and snacks to help you on your health journey.
Connect with like-minded individuals and embark on a journey towards a healthier you!.
This is NOT a diet. It is a lifestyle!
Don't miss out on this opportunity to reshape your life!
SHAPE Cafe/Bar 32 Newmarket St, Ayr
SKETCH in the air
Once a month from Feb 20th - July 17th, 6pm - 8pm
An evening of aerial life drawing and live music
Join us for an inspiring evening of aerial life drawing paired with live music for a truly immersive experience. The art model, Sarah Bebe Holmes—a physical theater and circus performer—will captivate with her dynamic energy, incorporating aerial apparatus and striking, expressive poses. Accompanying her is Bado Reti, an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and composer, who will guide the evening with his mesmerizing music.
Immerse yourself in this unique fusion of art forms! Enhance your art portfolio, decorate your space, or elevate your social feed with striking figure drawings that are sure to impress.
Be a part of a supportive community of artists of all levels to nurture and immerse yourself in creativity.
There are LIMITED SPACES! Book early to snag your spot
£20 Single evening advance ticket (at least 48 hours before event)
£25 Single evening at the door
£55 Triple Pack (first 3 sessions)
£105 Full Series (all 6 sessions)
SHAPE Cafe/Bar 32 Newmarket St, Ayr
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