A NUMBER of events are being staged in North Ayrshire to mark the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival.

First on the calendar is a local launch event which is set to take place in Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre (HAC) on Wednesday, October 9, from 6pm to 8pm.

Participants will have the opportunity to take part in some taster sessions and enjoy some live performers, guest speakers, art demonstrations and refreshments at the free event.

Hosted by comedian and DJ Billy Kirkwood, this special launch will showcase some of the fantastic events – including theatre and musical performances – being delivered by a range of local groups and artists throughout October as part of the festival.

More details on this can be provided by contacting tommy@mecopp.org.uk.

The HAC will also, at the same time on the same day, play host to This is Me.

This free event is an exhibition of art and poetry created by members of the gypsy traveller community, supported by Mecopp staff, that demonstrates the effect stigma has on people from an ethnic background.

The artwork on display aims to challenge stigmas and change narrative by creating something more beautiful instead.

Meanwhile an exhibition showcasing a creative well-being project led by Charleigh Monaghan, an intern at Leaders Unlocked Scotland, will run at the HAC from October 2 until October 25, on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Over 12 months, Charleigh led a series of nature-based workshops for children, young people and adults across North Ayrshire, with the aim of aiding mental wellbeing and boosting creativity.

All are welcome to attend.