Through workshops, exhibitions, shared meals, artist residencies, creative conversations and events, we’ll work alongside local people, artists and communities to explore a big question: what does Ayr need to thrive creatively?

Rather than arriving with all the answers, we’re creating space for ideas to emerge, relationships to grow and new possibilities to take shape. Along the way, the community will help us imagine what the future of The Auld Toy Shop could look like.

We recently opened an open call for socially engaged creative practitioners to join us in delivering the programme — and 70 brilliant people applied from across Scotland and beyond. We’re now in the process of shortlisting and look forward to welcoming a group of practitioners who will help us bring the project to life.

Alongside the Culture Collective programme, we’re developing partnerships and exploring opportunities to restore The Auld Toy Shop as a permanent cultural and community space — creating a place where people can learn, make, share, connect and imagine new futures for Ayr. Our programme will be announced soon. Follow along and stay connected — there’s lots more to come.