Published 31.10.2024
by Kids’ Own

New Artist Residency Launches at St Joseph’s School, Sligo

Kids’ Own is excited to announce a new artist residency with our associate artist Andy Parsons at St Joseph’s School in Sligo.  Aimed at providing a 12-week programme of artistic engagement for students aged 5-18 with learning disabilities, this initiative caters to a portion of the 500 children served by the Children’s Disability Network Team in Sligo and South Donegal.

Recognising the need for programmes that support and enhance the educational experiences of students and their teachers, the Disability Network Team has partnered with Kids’ Own to implement this residency. Andy, who is experienced in working with children with learning disabilities, will guide students through a sustained creative arts process, allowing for new modes of expression, particularly for non-verbal participants.

Focusing on process-based, abstract art, this project offers an adaptable medium that fosters creative expression across a range of abilities. Kids’ Own has previously collaborated with St Cecilia’s Special School in Sligo, and this new project builds on that experience. To enhance collaboration, teachers from both schools will come together to share their insights and learning, ensuring that the project’s outcomes inform future initiatives.

 

 

Andy reflected on the sessions that have already taken place “For the first session we worked on giant sheets of unprimed artist’s canvas, using paint and water to create atmospheric textures and subtle colours. The canvases will be the backdrop for more experiments with paint and collage as the project develops. 

 In week two we used sheets of brown paper and tape to create abstract sculptures, weaving shapes in and out of each other to create complex organic structures. Theses structures will be covered in plaster, painted and collaged over the next few weeks. They will be spectacular!”

At the conclusion of the residency, there will be a public exhibition showcasing the artwork created by the students. This event will provide positive visibility to young people in the community who are often unseen and unheard, celebrating their creative voices alongside their families, teachers, and support workers.

Kids’ Own will thoroughly document the project, sharing insights and updates on our website and social media platforms throughout the residency.

Read all about our past project with St Cecilia’s School here: https://kidsown.ie/kids-own-launch-st-cecelias-artist-in-residence-video/

Newsletter