Ayr’s famous Gaiety Theatre has been offering artists space to exhibit their work.

Having previously held exhibitions in the cafe, the studio and gallery space upstairs has now been used for more than 60 shows.

Ayrshire artist Anne Hynd, 74, recently had her landscape oil paintings hung for six weeks.

She told the Advertiser: “It’s good to get my work out there and see the reaction.”

Her landscapes depict views from all over Ayrshire.

She said: “I quite like the wild dark days, you get the drama with the dark clouds over Arran.

“It appeals to my sense of adventure.”

Discussions are underway at the Ayr Gaiety Partnership about the increasing the usage of the studio.

The former dance space could potentially be used for rehearsals and craft activities.

Shona Quayle, a volunteer at the Gaiety and former art teacher, has been bringing in exhibitors since she offered her services in 2013.

Originally hanging work in the downstairs cafe, following its refurbishment at the end of 2018 it was decided to make use of the upstairs space.

Shows have included the launch of the Carrick Art Trail, Ayrshire College’s diploma show, and professional and amateur artists alike.

Mrs Quayle said: “The footfall is larger in the Gaiety because people are coming in and out for other activities.

“The benefit is it gets their names out there, gets them exposure, which can be difficult for artists.

“The atmosphere in the Gaiety is special, the programme is amazing and we want to support the visual arts locally.

“We offer a very good deal for artists, we charge no hanging fee and put their name in the programme.

“All we ask is the exhibitors donate a percentage of sales to help maintain the building.”