Spraoi Le Chéile exhibition celebrates creativity and community in Mayo

A vibrant community art exhibition showcasing the creativity of Mayo families has officially opened in Castlebar, highlighting the power of connection and shared experiences.

The Spraoi Le Chéile Community Art Project, developed by Le Chéile Community and Family Resource Centre, has been running since September 2025 and culminated in a public exhibition at the Linenhall Arts Centre.

The initiative brought together parents, grandparents, babies and toddlers through weekly creative arts and music workshops, fostering both artistic expression and social wellbeing.

Project Manager Ann Conway welcomed attendees at the launch, outlining how funding from the Toy Show Appeal helped bring the project to life. She emphasised that its real success lay in the people involved.

“The true strength of this project lies in the families who came together each week to share ideas, build relationships and create a strong sense of community,” she said.

The project explored a range of themes, including Little Hands and Feet, Care and Nurturing, Family and Friends, Creative Spaces and Places, Our Little Theatre, and All the Seasons.

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A highlight of the launch was a talk by internationally renowned neuroscientist Bruce Perry, who spoke about the importance of connection between caregivers and children.

He stressed that strong early relationships are critical to a child’s long-term development and wellbeing, adding that community initiatives like Spraoi Le Chéile play a vital role in fostering those connections.

The exhibition also featured contributions from local groups such as Buggy Buddies, breastfeeding and parent support groups, and knitting and crafting circles, alongside workshop facilitators Edel Mitchell and Claire Burke.

Three parents shared personal reflections at the launch, describing how the project helped build friendships, support mental health and strengthen bonds with their children.

Chairperson Lorraine Gibbons praised the dedication of all involved, while the exhibition was officially opened by local artist Tracy Murphy, founder of Yellow Easel Design.

She highlighted the importance of introducing children to art at an early age, noting its benefits for both social and cognitive development.

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Organisers also thanked the staff of the Linenhall Arts Centre for hosting the exhibition, as well as Bru Coffee Shop in Castlebar for providing refreshments.

The exhibition will run until Tuesday, May 5, offering the public an opportunity to experience a project that organisers say demonstrates how creativity, connection and community can come together to support families.