North Ayrshire Open Art Exhibition returns this weekend
Now celebrating its 29th year, the North Ayrshire Open Art Exhibition is back at Eglinton Country Park from Saturday 5 July.
Showcasing the outstanding artistic talent we have, not only in North Ayrshire but beyond, the exhibition - delivered in partnership with the council’s Arts and Culture team - is set to welcome hundreds of visitors.
With something for everyone in a host of artistic styles, the popular annual art exhibition is preparing to go down a treat with creative children and young people too, as an entrance colouring table will be there to encourage others to make their own artistic creations.
Exhibition Coordinator Julia Griffin said: “We are delighted to be returning to the wonderful Racquet Hall at Eglinton Country Park once again, it’s such a great venue to hold this popular exhibition. An incredible 130 talented artists have submitted their works to be exhibited this year, and we aim to showcase 160 amazing paintings, drawings and sculptures. The event will celebrate the work of artists living and working in Ayrshire and beyond.
“Thank you to North Ayrshire Council’s Arts and Culture team for their ongoing advice and support and to the team at Eglinton Country Park for all their help in accommodating the exhibition. We are thrilled to welcome the public to what we hope will be our best collection yet.”
Located close to Tournament Café - just around the corner from Eglinton’s popular playparks - the Racquet Hall exhibition is FREE, and everyone is welcome! The exhibition begins on Saturday 5 July, and will run until Saturday 19 July - open every day between 10am and 4pm.
Julia adds: “The North Ayrshire Open Art committee would also like to give a shout out to the amazing local sponsors offering prizes this year; FSS Wealth & Pensions, Largs Hardware & Gallery 8, Scotland’s Artists Print Studio, Studio 44 Gallery, Freckfest and Buckreddan Care Home.”
All visitors to the exhibition will also have the chance to get personally involved and vote for their favourite artwork, the winner of which will receive a prize donated by UPM Caledonian Paper.
Quote: North Ayrshire Council is proud to welcome the return of the North Ayrshire Open Art Exhibition. After having a sneak peek of the works on display, I am excited for others to experience this dynamic art exhibition - a highlight of our arts, culture and summer events calendar. So, if you are planning on visiting Eglinton Park during the first few weeks of the summer break, why not drop in to show your support for the local art scene?”
Quote from: Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Islands
The Racquet Hall is relaxed and family-friendly with toilets nearby. The venue also welcomes dogs too if they are on a lead. Stay tuned to the Harbour Arts Centre events webpage and the Summer What’s On round-up for info on other summer events.
Published: 04 July 2025