Popular art group to hold special event to mark turning 20

It will be open from August 27 to August 31 from 11am to 4pm.

Art in Mind was started in 2004. A joint venture between Arran Visual Arts and the Community Mental Health team who make the referrals to the group, it has been funded by the Awards for All Lottery fund, The Robertson’s Trust and The Weir Foundation. It is also supported generously by Arran residents.

In 2023, the group got a grant from Arran Community Council’s Scottish Power Renewables’ Beinn an Tuirc Windfarm Fund, allowing for the appointment of a part-time co-ordinator and the setting up of a second group. 

Art in Mind now has four new tutors, who take one group for a seven week block, on a rota basis. The groups have been exploring lots of new techniques and skills and the results of this work will be on display and for sale at the exhibition.

The main aim of Art in Mind is to reduce social isolation, providing a safe, relaxed environment where people can socialise while being creative. Over the years, this has increased the confidence of individuals attending and enhanced their feelings of wellbeing. 

There is no time limit; some people have been coming for 20 years, others come and go, but they all know the door is open for them to return.

There is a relaxed, friendly and sometimes industrious atmosphere, not to mention frequent doses of laughter. Time can be spent in group activities or doing your own ‘thing’, with plenty help, support and advice on offer which often sees great results being achieved.