Super Saturday: Summer of Expression

04 Jul 2026 - 04 Jul 2026

Our Summer of Expression kicks of with a vibrant day of hands-on workshops, performances and family-friendly activities inspired by our new programme. Come and explore creativity through poetry, science, movement and making! Our full programme of activity is below.

More info

Check our programme - some activities are free and others are bookable in advance.

Header image: Detail from Gillian Ayres, Brood (diptych), 1962, oil and ripolin on canvas, 84 x 120 1-8 in., 213.4 x 305 cm, 316360 Private Collection

Creative Poetry Workshop: Feeling in Colour

2–4pm | Foulston Room
£5 adults | £3 children
Ages 8+ (children must be accompanied)

Discover the expressive power of words in this intergenerational poetry workshop led by Plymouth Laureate of Words R.C. Thomas. Using the bold, abstract work of Gillian Ayres as a springboard, you’ll experiment with colour, shape and texture to unlock your creativity. Through playful exercises in improvisation and gesture, you'll free yourself of restrictions, putting feelings into your own original poems responding to art and emotion. Perfect for beginners and anyone who thinks poetry “isn’t for them” — this might just change your mind.

Inter-generational poetry workshop for anyone aged 8+. All children need to be accompanied by an adult. Delivered in partnership with Literature Works

Arm Wrestling: Demonstrations and Have-a-Go

2–4pm | North Hall
Free, drop-in | All ages welcome

Inspired by Jordan Baseman’s film Pro-Grip (How To Be Humans), join local arm-wrestling groups for an energetic afternoon of demonstrations, sparring and friendly competition. There'll be the chance for visitors to have a go, learn the basics and test your strength in this welcoming, inclusive environment.

Vision and Colour Workshop: Become a Colour Detective

10.30am–3pm | Beneath the Ship’s Figureheads
Free, drop-in | Ages 3–11

How do we really see colour? Join the University of Plymouth’s Optometry team to find out. Through a variety of fun, hands-on activities, children can explore how the eye works and discover the science behind colour vision. Inspired by Gillian Ayres’ vibrant artworks, activities include colour experiments, interactive games and eye-health exploration using specialist equipment. Please note: one activity includes flashing coloured lights.

Spin and Splat Painting with Graham Robinson

Sessions at 10–11.30am, 11.45am–1.15pm and 2–3.30pm | Simmons Learning Room
£5 per participant | Booking required
Ages 3+ (accompanying adults are free, but not participating)