Two exciting days of Creative Arts, featuring a Children’s Arts Exhibition and Artistic Sessions
Carndonagh, Co. Donegal – 14th April 2025
Spraoi agus Spórt, in partnership with the Arts Council of Ireland and supported by Donegal County Council Library Service, invites you to the Make Inishowen Children’s Arts Festival. Taking place in Carndonagh on 22nd and 23rd April, the festival features a two-day exhibition alongside workshops designed for children.
As part of the festival’s outreach, pupils from Tiernasligo and Urbalreagh National Schools were asked to collect stories from older people in their communities. Artists John D. Ruddy, Sinead Smyth, Bernie Murphy, Roisin Harrigan and Clodagh Warnock have guided the children in turning these stories into artwork. Their work, created during this outreach project, will be shown in the exhibition.
The festival takes inspiration from the Dúchas Schools Collection, preserved by the National Folklore Collection. This archive was compiled by schoolchildren across Ireland in the 1930s—including pupils from Tiernasligo and Urbalreagh at the time. Make Inishowen gives today’s children a way to connect with their heritage through painting, textiles, music and animation.
“It’s been a pleasure seeing this come together,” said Project Manager Deirdre McGrory. “The children have really engaged with the stories and brought them to life. Working with the artists has made a big difference. They’re excited to show their work to the public.”
Could your school do something similar? Visit the Dúchas Collection online—your school might be there. Ask a grandparent or neighbour about their childhood. Could you paint a scene, write a poem, or turn a rhyme into a song?
The exhibition is open to everyone at Carndonagh Library on 22nd April (11am–5.30pm) and 23rd April (9.30am–5.30pm). To explore the workshops and book your place, visit www.spraoiagussport.ie. All events are free, thanks to the Arts Council and Donegal County Library Service.