The ‘Practice’ National Exhibition Tour of work by artists and children kicked off at West Cork Arts Centre on 18 January with a Day for Artists and an evening launch of celebration and activity, including a tour by exhibiting artists. ’Practice’ presents an opportunity for insight into a range of projects by artists Helen Barry, Ann Donnelly, Naomi Draper, Ann Henderson, Maree Hensey, Fiona Kelleher and Christine Mackey.
The Practice Day for Artists explored different approaches to working with children and was led by exhibiting artists Maree Hensey, Naomi Draper and Ann Henderson.
Responses from artist participants at the Day for Artists:
’Fun, enjoyable way to explore and discuss approaches to collaborating and working with children. Love the participatory practical aspect and getting stuck in with peers ... Loved having the quality reflective time with the work and hanging out in the exhibition space.’
’Inspired to continue developing my illustration work – use inks and remember the amount of genuine expression and emotion kids can get in minimal drawings.’
’Thought provoking for how I work as an artist.
Challenge to look at the amount of input by the artist in a collaboration.
Inspiring – the work explored through practice.ie tour.’
The day before the launch, artist Maree Hensey worked with a group of local primary school children to create a collaborative drawing for the exhibition:
There will be a programme of events for artists and the general public running throughout the exhibition, including virtual exchange sessions with Ann Henderson for artists who want to learn more about collaborative practice with children. Ann is also engaging in Shared Online Investigations via her studio on Rathlin Island. Gallery visitors will be encouraged to interact with Ann and her processes using the technology provided on scheduled dates. The images below are from Ann’s studio investigations during the launch.
Tour Dates
West Cork Arts Centre: 18th January - 22nd February 2014
axis: Ballymun: 3rd - 27th March 2014
The Model, Sligo: 4th April - 4th May 2014
CLICK HERE to Meet the Artists
CLICK HERE to learn more about the exhibition
