Written by Anna Murray
The Spacers were off on our first go-see of the programme in January. Zooming up the A76 to Ayr, gently serenaded by James on the kazoo (see our Instagram Reel from the day), we were all buzzing to get into the nitty-gritty of another fantastic arts organisation.

Narture, founded in 2020 by father-daughter duo Robert and Saskia Singer, is a community arts organisation funded by their very own sourdough bakery, where they produce fresh breads and pastries each day. On this foundation of good food, they “re-invest all surplus profits into creative projects, as an instigator of town centre regeneration. The spaces host a community darkroom, Riso printer, exhibitions, events, workshops, holistic therapies, and talks.”

We arrived and were welcomed to their cosy and creatively decorated café by Saskia, and were able to grab some delicious lunch while we got chatting. We were then introduced to Saskia’s dad and co-founder Robert, and were given some of Narture’s backstory. They have both studied art, and Robert has a background in catering, all of which comes together in what they do at Narture. We could really feel the passion and dedication they both have for the organisation, and they clearly have put a lot of hard work into building what they have. You can read more about Narture and what they do on their website: https://www.narture.co.uk/.

We then went on a tour of the spaces Narture uses on Ayr High Street. Seeing what they’ve done with the spaces—the artist studios, Riso printer, etc.—was inspiring and definitely got us thinking about what could be transferable to our own town in Dumfries, as well as our own creative practices.

It was brilliant to get out and about as a team, and spending the day with a new organisation has definitely brought a fresh perspective. The car ride home was full of discussion and chat about new ideas—we left Narture with a sense of connection with the organisation and their community.

Creative Spaces is a Dumfries-based collective of young creatives, working with and advocating for our region’s young artists.
Situated in the heart of Dumfries, Creative Spaces collaborates with young creatives from across the region, providing young people with opportunities to engage in the arts. Whether it’s through events, workshops, mentorships, or our annual Associates Programme, we aim to enhance Dumfries and Galloway’s creative scene by offering free access to opportunities and paid commissions.
Keep up to date with the Creative Spaces team on Instagram: @creative.spaces_