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Attending the Launch of the Inspired Biodiversity and Creative Art Exhibition on Thursday night from left, Kay Mc Carthy, (Inspired, Chair Person), Karen Galligan (Re-Think Ireland), Minister for Education Norma Foley and Inspired CEO Liz Maher. © 2024 www.deniswalshphotography.com
THE Biodiversity and Creative Art Exhibition, curated and presented by participants with intellectual disabilities attending Inspired Tralee, was opened on Thursday.
A celebration of both environmental consciousness and creative artistic expression, the exhibition was officially launched in Siamsa Tire by Minister for Education Norma Foley.
The showcase is a treasure trove of creativity and sustainability, exhibiting a diverse array of artwork, photography and eco-craft.
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The photography section, focuses on the beauty of nature through the human lens, and how this is reflected though the participants’ unique perspectives on biodiversity.
Recycled plastics have found a new life as vibrant jewellery pieces and household items all of which have been created using melted and recycled plastic.
From left; Jackie Moriarty with Tom Sears, Ciarán Sears and Pari Garcia enjoying the opening night of the Inspired Biodiversity and Creative Art Exhibition. © 2024 www.deniswalshphotography.com 087-6017694
The skilfully shaped and carved woodcraft animals, birdboxes, and wood portraits, highlight the need to preserve our planet and save precious wildlife from extinction.
Meanwhile, the ocean experience employs yet another medium to convey participants interpretations of biodiversity and the need to protect our oceans and seashores.
The entire exhibition serves as a testament to each participants personal creativity and offers visitors a profound appreciation for environmental conservation. It also delivers a creative nod to Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani (1884-1920).
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Tutors who have been involved in the workshops say they hope that attendees not only witness the transformative power of art and eco-craft, but hope they gain insight into the importance of sustainability as seen through the eyes of these remarkable individuals.
Eoin O`Sullivan and Fr. Padraig Walsh share a great chat about the exhibits on show. © 2024 www.deniswalshphotography.com 087-6017694
Visitors commented that the exhibition reflected “ability and professionalism” and remarked that the artwork surpassed their expectations with over half of the artwork sold on the night. The exhibition will remain open till March 19th.
The exhibit also introduced Inspired’s Biodiversity Learning Hub which is designed to enable people with intellectual disabilities to interact with members of the community who have a keen interest in taking positive action towards climate change.
Inspired CEO Liz Maher, said; “Biodiversity, creative art and social care are a perfect combination where participants attending the workshops receive the support they need to place their footprint on climate action. This has been an amazing journey for those who have attended the workshops. They are being empowered to have a voice in biodiversity and climate change within their own community. This has become so important to them, and we are very proud of their work. We are equally proud and thankful for the immense support our staff, volunteers, and funders Rethink Ireland and Creative Climate Action Ireland have extended to us, in order to make this exhibition and the workshops a reality”.
Minister for Education Norma Foley with some of the attendees as they listen to Inspired CEO Liz Maher. © 2024 www.deniswalshphotography.com
The art and jewellery will remain on sale for the next four weeks and all profits from the exhibition will be distributed to the benefit of the participating artists.
Exhibition visitors who wish to make a purchase can contact Inspired at: 066 7117315 or e-mail info@inspired.ie.
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