Help Bring an Immersive Art Installation to Life — In a Nuclear Bunker

Written By kat prior

Be part of a unique and atmospheric exhibition experience at Barnton Bunker in Corstorphine, Edinburgh — a decommissioned nuclear bunker currently undergoing renovation.

Mayflies: Swarm is a large-scale installation made up of thousands of hand-cut paper mayflies, each one attached by hand to the bunker’s walls, creating the impression of a delicate swarm gathering in place.

We are currently looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help across three key phases of the project:

Phase 1: Installation Volunteers

Help bring the artwork to life! Tasks will include:

  • Unfolding and attaching individual paper mayflies to the walls using Blu Tack

  • Setting up signage and workshop materials

  • Assisting with general preparation of the exhibition space

This role requires good manual dexterity and patience, as the work can be quite fiddly.


Installation dates:

  • Sat 24 May

  • Sun 25 May

  • Wed 28 May

  • Thu 29 May

  • Mon 2 – Fri 6 June

Phase 2: Private View Event Volunteers

Support the smooth running of the Private View event by helping with:

  • Event setup and takedown

  • Signing guests in and out

  • Managing the refreshment table

  • Welcoming visitors and answering questions

We’re aiming for a team of at least 5 volunteers to ensure everyone has time to enjoy the event.


Private View: Thu 6 June, 6:00–8:30pm
Arrival for volunteers: No later than 5:00pm for a quick briefing and training.

Phase 3: Exhibition Invigilators

Help us welcome the public to this extraordinary space!
Duties will include:

  • Greeting visitors at the entrance

  • Signing people in and out

  • Providing basic information or informal tours

This role includes time outdoors at the bunker gate — weather protection and hot drinks will be provided.

Exhibition open dates (subject to change):

  • Sat 7 June – 4:30–7:30pm

  • Sun 8 June – 10:00am–7:30pm

  • Fri 13 June – 10:00am–7:30pm

  • Sat 14 June – 10:00am–7:30pm

  • Sun 15 June – 10:00am–7:30pm

Accessibility Information

Unfortunately, the entrance ramp has been deemed too steep for wheelchair access, and there is currently no accessible toilet on site.
The approach to the bunker includes uneven ground, which may be difficult for those with limited mobility.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have concerns or need further information.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Friendly and confident individuals

  • Good communicators

  • Team players who are self-motivated and reliable

Benefits include

  • Developing new skills

  • Getting to meet new people

  • Spending time in an amazing space working on a unique artwork

Interested in Volunteering?

Please email Kat Prior at info@katarinaprior.com.
Include:

  • Which role(s) you’re interested in

  • Your availability

  • A brief note on why you’d like to be involved

I’ll then be in touch to arrange a chat — in person, online, or by phone.

If you have any questions at all, just reach out. I’d love to hear from you!

Thank you!

kat prior
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