Colourful Croagh Patrick forms backdrop to ‘Welcome to Mayo’ exhibition

THE ‘Welcome To Mayo’ exhibition is a celebration of multiculturalism in Mayo. It is the result of an art project carried out with international protection applicants from Algeria, Burundi, Ethiopia and Nigeria.

The project, funded by Creative Ireland Mayo, focused on the theme of home and identity.

Local artist and founder of Yellow Easel Studio, Tracy Murphy, worked with this group of asylum seekers based in Castlebar to explore the balance between integrating into their new home while keeping a connection with their own culture and traditions.

Speaking about the project, Tracy said: “Many of us have family and friends who left these shores. We see them navigate the challenges of adjusting to new places, languages and cultures.

“This project is a way to extend our Céad Míle Fáilte to the newest members of our community and offer them a sense of belonging and support.”

The ‘Welcome to Mayo’ exhibition is now open at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar and runs until Friday, November 3.

The exhibition explores cultural connectivity to Mayo with colourful abstract paintings of Croagh Patrick. It also honours the participants’ heritage and homelands with unique artworks that have personal and cultural significance to them.

Speaking about collaboration with the Linenhall Arts Centre, the artists said: “We are so grateful to the Linenhall Arts Centre for this opportunity to share our work with the public. It’s our small way of saying thank you to the people of Castlebar for their generosity.

“This exhibition provides an opportunity for the artists and locals to learn about each other’s culture and traditions.”

Members of the public are invited to attend the official launch this Friday (October 27) at 4 p.m. at the Linenhall.