When we started Ayrshire Film Co. CIC, I held a strong belief that film could positively impact our local community. What took me much longer to realise was this; the act of participation often creates a greater impact than the final product itself.
Over the years we’ve been involved in many community projects and have expanded our focus from film-making to broader ‘media’ activity in general. It’s now clear to me that any creative art form—be it filmmaking, photography, or podcasting—serves as a powerful tool for enhancing individual well-being.
Recently, we had the privilege of working with Barnardo’s to host a series of photography workshops, where young people discovered the magic of fast and slow shutter photography, light trails, and colour dash. It was an inspiring journey, not just in mastering photographic techniques, but in finding a unique outlet for self-expression and connection.
Through these workshops, we witnessed firsthand the transformative power of engaging with art. The process of experimenting with light and movement, of seeing the world through a different lens, offered a playful escape and a sense of accomplishment. Whether it was tracing vibrant light trails in the dark or capturing the dynamic blur of a colour dash, each click of the shutter was an invitation to explore, to learn, and to simply be present in the moment.
Mental wellbeing is often about finding those moments of focus and joy, and creativity provides a powerful pathway to that. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, having a space to play, to experiment, and to create without the pressure of perfection is invaluable. The beauty of these workshops was in their simplicity: no prior technical skills were required, only a willingness to engage and explore.
Our hope is that this experience empowered the young participants to see that creativity is truly for everyone. It’s not about being a professional artist or mastering complex techniques; it’s about the act of playing, learning, and discovering what brings you joy. So, whether it’s photography, painting, writing, or any other creative pursuit, we encourage you to embrace the process, let go of expectations, and simply enjoy the journey of creation. Because in every brushstroke, every note, and every captured image, there’s a little piece of wellbeing waiting to be found.
Taylor McInroy is Creative Director of Ayrshire Film Co. CIC, a video production social enterprise that supports young people and the wider Ayrshire community through various media projects, workshops and programmes.
North Ayrshire Mental Health Arts Festival 