Kildare artist Niamh Eldridge Barry showcases remarkable artwork at national exhibition
Niamh Eldridge Barry, a talented 24-year-old local artist from Rathmore has proudly exhibited her remarkable artwork at the prestigious Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI) in Dublin as part of the Connecting Artists 2023 programme.
Niamh, one of ten artists carefully selected from across the country, was diagnosed with Dyspraxia at the age of eight.
Niamh said: "The Connecting Artists 2023 community gave me the opportunity to connect with like-minded creatives. This experience has increased my confidence. The Connecting Artists 2023 programme understands the unique needs of each participant and this understanding has been very important to me."
The national exhibition, which took place from Sunday, July 16 to 18, was a culmination of the 10-week online programme designed by Miriam Spollen, the founder of Connections Arts Centre (CAC), an award-winning social enterprise dedicated to connecting the disability community through the arts. Miriam's inspiring vision includes supporting up to 50 artists and hosting three national exhibitions, with plans to expand the programme in Europe and develop a junior programme.
Speaking at the event Miriam said, “This programme would not be possible without our ten wonderful mentors who volunteered their time to support each artist, and the RCSI Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Unit, for providing a platform to highlight the exceptional talents of these ten artists. It provides a safe space for artists to explore their art and techniques and learn from each other. It also prepares them for exhibiting and selling their work.”
Broadcaster, Miriam O'Callaghan joined the artists and their families at the event, expressing her joy and privilege to witness their stunning art pieces in the fantastic exhibition space.
In Ireland, one in five people (22%) live with a disability, and CAC aims to change the perception and visibility of people with disabilities by providing innovative learning environments and inclusive creative spaces. The exhibition's success has paved the way for further showcases, with the exhibit set to be featured at the University of Atypical in Belfast from Friday, 28 of July until Friday, 25 of August, and seeking locations in Co Kildare to showcase the exhibition in the future.
Connections Arts Centre continues to support artists through the Connecting Artist Collective, offering monthly online meetings and opportunities to showcase and sell their work. The organisation actively seeks partnerships with like-minded organisations to promote inclusivity and empower artists with intellectual disabilities. If you or your organisation are interested contact miriam@ connectionsartscentre.ie
Support Niamh and all the talented artists by purchasing their artwork, prints, and gift cards on the Connections Arts Centre website, www. connectionsartscentre.ie.
Stay updated with news and events by following @connectionsartscentre on Instagram.