Who we are
A’ the Airts contributes to the social, economic and cultural well-being of the communities of Upper Nithsdale by actively encouraging participation in a range of arts, crafts and related activities.
We are a Community Arts and Crafts centre nestled in the heart of Upper Nithsdale.
Our fully accessible building is a hub where individuals or groups meet and express their creativity.
Our well regarded Café is situated on the ground floor and caters to all visitors.
We also have a shop, a great place to browse the unique made in house Sanquhar Pattern knitwear and accessories and a superb variety of wares from local crafters.
In addition, we have a number of facilities such as workrooms, a theatre & exhibition gallery, on offer.
History
In 2000 some Sanquhar residents had the vision of turning a run-down building in the High Street into an arts, crafts and cultural centre, to help with the regeneration of the area. Local consultation showed considerable support for the idea.
After a lot of hard work and considerable commitment, funding was acquired to purchase the site and building work commenced, but stalled in 2008 when some anticipated funding was lost. In the meantime, a group called “Friends of A’ the Airts” was set up to organise cultural activities in Upper Nithsdale.
With support from the Big Lottery and the Scottish Government among others, building started again in April 2010, and the centre was finally completed in November 2010. We had a fantastic opening day on 20th November 2010 – with over 500 people through the doors.
An official opening followed on 2nd December, when local solicitor Kenneth McLean unveiled a plaque and thanked our many supporters.
Since then we have had a varied programme of events including music, drama and poetry. The café and the shop are thriving, we are building partnerships with other local and non-local organisations and there is increasing interest in the centre as a base for a wide variety of arts, crafts and cultural activities.
To date, our project has continued to receive support and funding from the Big Lottery Growing Community Assets Fund and Dumfries and Galloway Council, as well as project related funding from the Hugh Fraser Foundation, The Gannochy Trust, Sanquhar Community Council, Propel, The Robertson Trust, the Holywood Trust, Santander and Foundation Scotland.
Aims:
to provide opportunities for people to enjoy arts and crafts and to provide a valued entertainment and learning resource in the area.
to promote the work of artists and craftspeople in Upper Nithsdale, showcase their work and to assist them to develop their economic viability.
to increase community engagement by working with other groups and schools in the area, supporting young people, the elderly and the disadvantaged.
to attract tourists into the area, to work with and benefit all local businesses and help with economic regeneration.
Most of all
we want our community arts centre to be for the community, with events, classes, workshops, performances and exhibitions for people of all ages and from all sections of the community.
We welcome everyone through our doors and also welcome people’s contributions, whether through volunteering or donations or simply telling us what you think and what you would like to see happen.
Yvonne Barber has been the Centre Manager at A’ the Airts since July 2017. With over 25 years’ experience in community-based education, training, and the arts, Yvonne brings both passion and expertise to her role. As a dedicated Project Manager, she’s committed to empowering others by building confidence and skills across the community.
We’re incredibly proud that Yvonne was named one of the Top 100 Women in Tourism 2022, and one of the top three in Dumfries & Galloway. Her warmth, energy, and collaborative approach are well known to all who meet her.
Through her work with the Upper Nithsdale Tourism Partnership and strong ties to local businesses and third sector organisations, Yvonne has helped make Sanquhar a must-see destination. Her leadership continues to drive the Centre and community forward.
Yvonne is available at the Centre Tuesday to Saturday. If you’d like to chat or share an idea, feel free to drop in or give her a call at 01659 50514.
Yvonne Barber
Centre Manager
Community Project of the Year Winner 2022
Community Project of the Year award winner A’ The Airts of Sanquhar; Megan Callaghan, Willie Waugh, Yvonne Barbour, Catreona Archibald, Hayley with Lydsey Featherstone of sponsors Croma Vigilant
PHOTO COURTESY OF DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY LIFE
The Dumfries and Galloway Life Magazine awards were held at Easterbrook Hall on the 11th of November. Local charity A’ the Airts won in the category of Community Project of the year.
There were 330 people in attendance at the event. Local businesses, performers, sportspeople and community groups from a cross Dumfries and Galloway.
Chair Willie Waugh of Upper Nithsdale Arts and Crafts Community Initiative, known as A’ the Airts was in attendance with Board member Elizabeth Griggs and Centre Manager Yvonne Barber. Willie said, we are thrilled for our Centre and for the community of Upper Nithsdale. This is a great achievement and we are grateful to the community for their ongoing support. Thank you to all our staff, volunteers, funders and Board members.
Centre manager Yvonne Barber said, I am so pleased that we won, hopefully it will encourage people to visit this beautiful area. Thank you to everyone who supports us.
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