A major exhibition showcasing the eye-catching world of tattoo art is to make its Scottish debut in South Ayrshire.

Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed is being brought to Rozelle House by South Ayrshire Council with the exhibition running for six weeks from Saturday, January 19 to Sunday, March 3, 2019.

Showcasing the work of major tattoo artists from George Burchett, via the Bristol Tattoo Club, to Alex Binnie and Lal Hardy this is the largest gathering of real objects and original tattoo artwork ever assembled in the United Kingdom. The exhibition features items from three of the most important private collections of tattoo material in Britain, belonging to Willie Robinson, Jimmy Skuse, and Paul ‘Rambo’ Ramsbottom, providing a rare opportunity to display original artwork and artefacts not otherwise on public display.

It’s estimated that about one in five of the UK population is tattooed with the figure rising to one in three for young adults. And yet, while the visibility of tattooing in contemporary culture may feel like something new, tattoos and tattoo art have always held a significant place in Britain’s history and historical imagination.

To accommodate the exhibition, Rozelle House will be closed to free public access for the six weeks the exhibition runs, but with the grounds/tea room open as normal.

Councillor Brian McGinley said: “This major event brings a unique exhibition to Scotland for the first time and we expect it to attract people from across Scotland as we showcase modern art in a way that’s never been done before.

“We’re committed to promoting South Ayrshire as a go-to destination and events like these go a long way to putting our museums and attractions firmly on the national map as a major player in Scotland’s cultural calendar."