The heART of Sound at The McManus

An after-hours sound and art experience in the Victoria Gallery, inviting rest, reflection, connection and a new way to meet the art. What might a painting sound like? The heART of Sound is a special after-hours pilot at The McManus, bringing art, sound and wellbeing into conversation. We’ll begin with a gentle guided practice to help you slow down and take in the Victoria Gallery through your senses. You’ll be invited to notice what you can see, hear and feel, how it is to be in the space, and which artwork draws your attention. Then settle onto a yoga mat, sit comfortably on a chair or mindfully walk or move as instruments, voice, silence, art and space come together around you. Here, the Victoria Gallery is not simply the setting. The art becomes part of the experience, while sound offers a different way to meet it. The evening brings together The McManus and Sounds Good Scotland CIC through a shared commitment to making art, culture and wellbeing experiences welcoming and accessible. Sounds Good Scotland CIC creates sound-based wellbeing experiences that support reflection, connection and wellbeing, with a particular commitment to people and communities affected by the justice system. This pilot is open to the wider community, creating an opportunity for people to come together through sound, art and shared experience. Whether you love art, are curious about sound, have sometimes wondered what all the fuss is about, or have never visited The McManus before, you are warmly welcome. We’ll finish with time to draw, reflect or share if you wish. As this is a pilot, we ask participants to complete a short feedback form after the session. Your feedback will help us understand what worked, what could be improved, and shape future community experiences. When Monday 5th October Arrival from 5.45pm Guided art and sound experience: 6–7pm Drawing, reflection and optional sharing: 7–7.30pm Booking Free to attend — booking is essential. There are only 10 spaces available. There is no expectation to make a payment to attend. If you would like to make an optional contribution to Sounds Good Scotland CIC, you’ll have the opportunity to do so when booking. Every participant receives the same experience whether or not they make a contribution. Before you arrive For conservation reasons, no food or drink is permitted in the gallery. There is no participant parking at the rear of The McManus. Public parking is available nearby, including around Bell Street and other city-centre parking areas. When you arrive from 5.45pm, please come to the rear reception area and gather in the Gothic Hall. We’ll meet there before going up to the Victoria Gallery together for a 6pm start. What to bring Bring a yoga mat and blanket if you would like to lie down. Chairs will also be available, and a limited number of yoga mats can be provided on request. About Sounds Good Scotland CIC Sounds Good Scotland CIC uses sound-based and creative wellbeing experiences to support reflection, connection and participation in our communities, with a particular commitment to people affected by the justice system. Our aim is to create accessible spaces that support wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen connection with self, others and community. Sound is social impact.