Art and community celebrated by Mayo pupils
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Children from Ballycastle NS at the launch of Creative Thinking 22 at the Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar. Photos: Alison LaredoImage 2 of 3
Isaac Hardesty from the community arts team at the launch of Creative Thinking 22 at the Linenhall Arts Centre.Image 3 of 3
Alice Dixon, creative associate, at the launch of Creative Thinking 22 at the Linenhall Arts Centre.PUPILS and staff from Attymass NS, Ballycastle NS and Castlebar Primary School gathered to mark the launch of a joint art exhibition called ‘Creative Thinking 22’.
The work, on display in the Linenhall Arts Centre, showcases the remarkable two-year journey of creativity within Mayo schools.
In collaboration with the Linenhall Arts Centre and Alice Dixon, students have explored biodiversity, nature and well-being, embedding creativity into their school environment.
The exhibition gives a small snapshot into the three schools' unique child-led approach to their innovative projects, including sensory gardens that promote inclusivity and hands-on engagement with the natural world.
Through art, storytelling and collaborative workshops, students have embraced creative thinking, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Each piece on display reflects their unique perspectives and celebrates the beauty of diversity in both nature and their school community.
At the exhibition launch the visiting young artists enjoyed a bespoke gallery tour, participated in a fun and messy marbling painting workshop and were treated to a backstage tour of the theatre with technical manager George Bernard Gallagher.
“Thank you to Attymass NS, Ballycastle NS and Castlebar Primary School for valuing creativity and placing creativity at the centre of their schools. The variety of projects on display from these schools demonstrates the impact and benefits a creative life can bring to all in our community,” said arts access officer Deirdre Melvin.
Thanks to The Arts Council, the Linenhall Arts Centre has been able to deliver the Creative Schools programme, led by creative associate Alice Dixon, to 12 schools in Mayo, Leitrim and Roscommon.
‘Creative Thinking 22’ exhibition is part of Roola Boola Children’s Arts Festival.
The celebrations include a selection of the highest calibre national and international children's theatre, music and circus shows as well as other arts events, including films, exhibitions, a multitude of hands-on arts workshops in a range of media.
To learn more about all that is on offer for children and families across the Halloween mid-term break please pick up a free festival brochure and or visit https://www.thelinenhall.com/.