Pupils from Mayo schools create stunning exhibition based on Irish Mythology

Creativity is in full bloom in Mayo schools.

The Linenhall Arts Centre is delighted to showcase a collaborative exhibition featuring the work of pupils from Ballyvary N.S., Parke N.S. and Manulla N.S.

This project celebrates the creative journey of the three schools over the past year as part of Creative Clusters. This is an initiative by the Department of Education and Youth, led by and in partnership with the Education Support Centres Ireland (ESCI). 

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Each school worked with Westport based artist, Nicky Dowd designing a large scale, enchanting triptych based on the well-known legend, The Children of Lir.

The children explored pattern, colour, texture and creativity to bring the story to life in art form. The colourful triptych is on display in the Linenhall Arts Centre until June 18th before the panels are returned to their permanent home in each school.

The pupils and teachers from each school came together on May 8th to celebrate their achievements in the Linenhall. The gathering was the culmination of year one of a two-year project.

It provided an amazing opportunity for the pupils to meet and appreciate their art on display in the gallery.

Children also had the opportunity to engage in a visual art workshop with the Linenhall facilitators and a story-telling workshop with creative practitioner, Wayne O’Connor.

The project was a huge success and we look forward to continuing the cluster in year two. In addition to Creative Clusters, pupils in 1st and 2nd class took part in BLAST, another Department of Education initiative fostering creativity and critical thinking.

This involved a six-week residency with local artist, Cas Mc Carthy. Pupils explored a variety of art forms and processes including 3D construction, drawing, collage and book making based around the theme of “Belonging in Nature”.

A selection of the children’s art can also be seen as part of the current exhibition in the Linenhall. 

The schools are extremely grateful to the Linenhall Arts Centre, Mayo Education Centre, Carmel Balfe and all of the artists involved for creating opportunities to put the arts and creativity in the hearts of our pupils.

They would also like to thank Albany Westport and Fleetwood paints for sponsoring the materials for the project.

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