Special exhibition opens this week at Kildare venue

Connections Arts Centre with Ardclough Village Centre, are hosting a Kildare artists exhibition next week which will have its official opening on Thursday, 10 April (7.30pm – 9.30pm) at Ardclough Village Centre.

This special event will showcase the work of local artists, including two talented members of the CA Collective, Niamh Eldridge-Barry and Jenny Stafford.

The exhibition will run from 10 April to 8 May, Wednesdays – Sundays, 9am – 3.30pm and admission is free.

This exhibition is particularly special as it showcases the work of two artists from the CA Collective, an initiative supported by Connections Arts Centre that provides professional development and exhibition opportunities for neurodivergent artists and artists with intellectual disabilities.

Niamh Eldridge-Barry of Rathmore, Naas has been passionate about art since childhood. She has explored various artistic techniques, from pottery to children's illustration, and takes inspiration from landscapes, animals, and places she has visited.

Rathangan’s Jenny Stafford finds inspiration in the nature surrounding her family farm. She has been painting for most of her life, primarily in acrylics and oils. In addition to her visual art, she is also a musician who enjoys playing guitar and singing.

The CA Collective comprises 27 artists from the neurodiverse community. The CA Collective evolved from the Connecting Artists Programme, an initiative supporting neurodivergent artists and artists with intellectual disabilities in developing their creative and professional practices.

The CA Collective provides a safe and supportive space where artists can collaborate, share skills, and exhibit their work.

Connections Arts Centre actively supports the group through mentorship, online meetings, professional opportunities, and exhibitions like this one.