Young people behind first exhibition in revamped Perth Art Gallery space

The first exhibition in the newly-refurbished temporary display space at Perth Art Gallery is set to open on Saturday (June 29).

Those behind Culture Perth and Kinross have said ‘The Fleapit Theatre’, which has been curated by members of the organisation’s Youth Collective, will “invite visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the art of cinema from the last 100 years”.

The nostalgic showcase is to include film projectors, classic movie posters, and much more besides.

There will also be the chance to view some classic cartoons from the 1930s and 1940s, such as Betty Boop and Superman.

The Youth Collective – a group of people ranging in age from 16 to 25 hailing from across the region – has taken the lead on all aspects of the concept, development and delivery of the exhibition.

They have worked alongside staff at the Mill Street gallery, simultaneously gaining an insight into heritage sector careers, boosting their skills and CVs, as well as making Culture Perth and Kinross venues more appealing and accessible to young people.

Rebecca McEwan, a member of the Culture Perth and Kinross Youth Collective, said:“The opportunity to curate ‘The Fleapit Theatre’ is indescribable.

“To be able to work with whole teams of professionals at such a young age is amazing, and, as an artist, will give me the confidence and experience to put on shows of my own.

“I think I’m more excited to see it finished than anyone else!”

Ashleigh Hibbins, head of audiences and learning at Culture Perth and Kinross, declared: “We’re delighted to be working with the Youth Collective on delivering this fantastic new exhibition, the first in our newly-refurbished temporary exhibition space at Perth Art Gallery.

“It has been a privilege to hand over our spaces, collections, and staff expertise to showcase the creativity, talent, and voices of local young people.

Ahead of the exhibition opening, Perth Art Gallery is also hosting a special late-night event, ‘200 Years Late’, on Friday (June 28).

The event celebrates 200 years of Perth Art Gallery, 150 years since the birth of JD Fergusson – whose permanent collection has recently been re-displayed in Perth Art Gallery – and 100 years of cinema with the launch of ‘The Fleapit Theatre’.

Tickets for ‘200 Years Late’ are available from Perthshire Box Office and cost £8 for Young Scot members, £10 for concessions and £12 for adults.

‘The Fleapit Theatre’ exhibition itself is free to enter once it opens on Saturday, but donations are welcome.

The showcase has been supported by The Gannochy Trust, Perth Playhouse, Kilmac Ltd and Taylors Snacks.

The Youth Collective and members’ work also receives funding from The Gannochy Trust.

The ‘200 Years Late’ preview evening runs from 7.30-10pm on Friday.

Main exhibition ‘The Fleapit Theatre’ can then be explored during the art gallery’s usual opening hours.

See the website www.perthshireboxoffice.com for more information or visit the box office itself at Perth Theatre.