Pupils showcase artwork in Kildare library

LOCAL children are taking centre stage at Kildare Town Library this summer, with a new showcase of artworks inspired by space, science and imagination, supported by Kildare County Council Created by 5th class pupils from St Brigid's National School, Kildare Town, the colourful display was developed through Galactic Probe: Art, Science & Exploration, a project that transformed the temporary absence of a painting from Kildare's Municipal Art Collection into an opportunity for creativity, learning and community pride.

The project was initiated by Kildare County Council Arts Service in response to the loan of Michael Asher's Galactic Probe (1972) to Ormston House, Limerick, where it forms part of Energy Made Visible, the first major exhibition of the artist's work in decades. The exhibition is curated by Ormston House Artistic Director Pádraig E. Moore, who also has Kildare roots.

Rather than leaving an empty space on the library wall, Kildare Library & Arts Service invited local children to create their own response to the artwork. 

Their imaginations were stretched through an enthralling astronomy talk led by Ciaran O’Callaghan of Naas Astronomy Club and a fun hands-on art workshop with local artist Martina McDonald.

The project culminates in a vibrant display of pupils' artworks at Kildare Town Library that will be on show throughout summer 2026.

Gillian Allen, county librarian, said: “Our Municipal Art Collection belongs to the people of Kildare, and this project has shown exactly why that matters. A nationally significant artwork has not only reached new audiences in Limerick, but it has inspired local children to create and to learn. The artworks on display at Kildare Town Library demonstrate the talent, curiosity and potential that exists within our community.”

 This project highlights the importance of Kildare's municipal art collection, which contains works of significant artistic and cultural value.

Members of the public, young and old, can encounter these artworks in everyday public spaces such as libraries and civic buildings, the Kildare Collection is increasingly attracting national attention.

Last year, Kildare County Council loaned an important stained-glass work by Modernist artist Evie Hone to a major exhibition at the National Gallery of Ireland.

The loan of Michael Ashur's Galactic Probe continues that story, demonstrating that artworks held in trust for the people of Kildare are recognised as important cultural assets on the national stage.

For the children involved, however, this project has been a chance to explore science, creativity and imagination while seeing their own work displayed publicly in their local library.

Families, friends and library visitors are invited to come along throughout the summer, view the exhibition and celebrate the achievements of this group of young Kildare artists – our bright stars of the future!