Published 29.06.2026
by Kids’ Own
by Kids’ Own
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A children's arts organisation and publishing house.
The first residency of the Wonder Programme has come to a close, following six weeks of creative exploration at Ballintogher Community Childcare.
Led by Kids’ Own associate artists Brenda Kearney and Karen Webster, the residency responded to the children’s own interests, particularly their love of spending time outdoors. Inspired by the natural environment surrounding the playschool, the artists created opportunities for children to experiment, play and make discoveries through sculpture, painting and photography.
Across the six weeks, the children explored materials and processes in imaginative ways. They made clay paint pots, created artworks using natural materials and developed a photography installation along the Ballintogher Nature Trail. The residency encouraged curiosity, collaboration and creative thinking, with experimentation at the heart of every session.
The experience proved rewarding for everyone involved, including the artists and childcare staff.
Reflecting on the residency, one staff member shared:
“I look at art now in a different light, that it’s not just about using paint and a canvas. You can create anything with a stick.”
The Wonder Programme places children’s ideas and interests at the centre of the creative process, supporting meaningful collaborations between artists, educators and young children in early years settings.
The programme continues this September with a second residency at Benbulben Community Childcare, where artists Anna Spearman and Lorna Watkins will begin a new six-week creative journey with children and staff.
You can read more about the project here https://kidsown.ie/projects/the-wonder-project/
The Wonder Programme is funded by Sligo Arts Service in partnership with the Arts Council of Ireland.