New Harbourside art exhibition by the seaside
A new exhibition supported by North Ayrshire Council’s Arts and Culture Team has been unveiled at the Harbour Arts Centre (HAC).
The doors opened at the weekend and the ‘Flourish’ exhibition will run until Saturday 23 August 2025. Featuring fabulous felt artworks, paintings and architectural marvels inspired by local buildings, this varied exhibition has something for everyone and the works on display are available for purchase.
Created by talented Harbourside-based artist Alison Thomas, this is the first time that she has showcased her work at the Harbour Arts Centre’s main galleries in a solo show.
Alison said: “I am delighted to be back at the HAC once again after exhibiting many times throughout the years. ‘Flourish’ is a celebration of the journey I have taken since I first moved into my art studio in Irvine almost 27 years ago.
“My exhibition definitely has a retrospective element, and it includes some of my earliest works such as ‘Bright Horses’ – a large oil painting at 3ft x 4ft which is a perfect example of the bold colours I used to be so fond of using. The concept of the show is to display my growth as an artist through the years I have spent in Irvine”.
By showcasing current work in the front gallery leading through to examples of older works in the back gallery, visitors to the exhibition can clearly see the progress and development of style, inspiration and colour themes that the artist has evolved over time.
Fish, landscapes and florals feature in her recent felt works and various materials including silks, fabrics and wools are used to create texture and intrigue. Curious characters like foxes and rabbits also give a childlike familiarity to pockets of the ‘Flourish’ exhibition and coastal inspired lampshades and textiles provide a homely backdrop.
Her love of mixed media can be seen in Alison's felt pieces many of which hang from driftwood sourced locally from Irvine and Troon beaches bringing a lovely slice of Ayrshire into the homes of those who purchase them.
Some of the works in the exhibition also give a nod to the shared endurance and resilience we had during the pandemic when we were confined indoors during lockdown, in contrast to the atmospheric and joyful seaside scenes inspired by the coastal beauty of the West of Scotland.
Quote: I feel very lucky to be based at Irvine harbourside next to the Harbour Arts Centre – I’ve been here for over 26 years now and I am constantly inspired by the landscape, the nature, the architecture, and the people. A very short walk takes me towards the beach and a spectacular view of the beautiful Isle of Arran. It is wonderful to have the opportunity to celebrate what I have created over the years and also showcase my love of painting and felt making, the combination of which is something that is not so often exhibited in local venues.
Quote from: Alison Thomas, Harbourside-based artist
Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Islands, is encouraging everyone to come along to support the local artist.
He said: “The Harbour Arts Centre is proud to welcome Alison Thomas and her incredible works to our flagship arts and culture venue for her debut exhibition. Flourish really does have something for everyone to enjoy and the works symbolise perfectly how Alison and her art practice has flourished over the years alongside the ongoing support of the Harbour Arts Centre and our Arts and Culture team.
“With a unique breadth of works on display, the exhibition provides a place to make memories, share stories and enjoy time together in calming and welcoming surroundings. So why not drop in this week to show your support?”
The Harbour Arts Centre is accessible and family-friendly with parking nearby and adjacent toilets and café. The exhibition is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from 9.30am until 4.30pm until Saturday 23 August.
Stay tuned to the Harbour Arts Centre on Facebook for more action and events happening this summer for all ages.
Published: 22 July 2025