Mayo Hospice fundraiser to remember former Westport councillor

The management, staff and participating artists of Custom House Studios and Gallery in Westport have now finalised arrangements for a Mayo Hospice fundraiser in memory of the late Margaret Adams.

This memorial fundraiser has been driven by Margaret’s inspirational impact and her unwavering dedication to her community. She was the first Chairperson of Custom House Studios which was established in November 2002.

Margaret was first elected to Westport Urban District Council in 1974, which later became Westport Town Council and until she chose to retire 40 years later, she never lost an election. She was elected as the first female Chairperson of the Urban Council in 1983 and was re-elected to that role on three other occasions. She was also elected to Mayo County Council in 1998, which gave her a wider political remit to include the problems and concerns of her constituents in rural areas.

Margaret was defined by her profound commitment and relentless work in her community. During her 40 years in politics, she availed of every opportunity to advocate for the betterment of Westport town and its environs. She undoubtedly channeled her dedication to the community into a living expression of the Mayo Hospice mantra “Every Moment Matters”, and she was a constant source of support and encouragement to all who knew her. There was no political divide for Margaret when she was approached to assist with personal, family or group-related problems.

Margaret took great pride in her tenure as Chairperson of Custom House Studios and Gallery, which spanned 23 years until her passing in February 2025. She was never merely a symbolic figurehead, but a true leader who commanded immense influence throughout her tenure. Margaret realised her dream of refurbishing the historic landmark building, which was built in 1820 to manage trade and shipping imports at Westport Quay. She ensured that it retained its façade while becoming a modern-day resource for emerging and established artists, where creativity and imagination are nurtured and the public is free to visit and enjoy its exhibitions.

This Anonymous Art Sale fundraiser will also acknowledge Margaret’s legacy as an advocate for the arts and her tireless campaign to ensure that Custom House Studios was recognised at national and international level.

It is also an opportunity to embrace Margaret’s memory and reflect on her impact in Westport and the wider community. Margaret was undoubtedly suited to a political career and possessed an innate ability to connect with all ages. She was extremely intuitive, and her social skills enabled her to negotiate successfully and foster trust and confidence. She left so many people with cherished memories.

Margaret’s family are extremely grateful to all the staff at Custom House Studios who initiated the concept and have undertaken the necessary steps to ensure the success of this fundraiser. They are overwhelmed by the number of local artists and artists from farther afield who have agreed to donate artworks for the sale, with all funds raised going to Mayo Hospice. Margaret received care at Mayo Hospice during the final stage of her life, and her family will be forever indebted to all the staff for their profound respect and compassion, their sensitivity towards her family and friends, and for their care and unwavering support.

Mayo Hospice can continue its work only because of the generosity of people like you. Together, let us keep Margaret’s light shining by supporting the Anonymous Art Sale at Custom House Studios and Gallery, The Quay, Westport, on Thursday, October 22, at 7pm.

For further information on how to participate, please visit customhousestudios.ie or contact [email protected]. To make a donation click on the link: https://customhousestudios.ie/events/9-anonymous-art-sale-in-aid-of-mayo-roscommon-in-memory-of-margaret-adams/