Art news for creative types …
National Drawing Day returns on May 16, a nationwide event coordinated by the National Gallery of Ireland in partnership with over 50 museums, galleries, arts centres and libraries. The Gallery will host a programme of free events, including a life drawing session in the historic Shaw Room led by artist Fintan Mahon. Outdoors, the front lawn will become an open-air studio with en plein air sketching and face-painting inspired by artworks from the Gallery’s collection.
Other free events nationwide include a manuscript decorating workshop at the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, a live drawing demonstration and artist talk at the Gerard Byrne Gallery, and animal-themed art classes for children at Airfield, all in Dublin; sticks and charcoal drawing at Signal Arts Centre in Wicklow; a creative embossed jewellery workshop at the Hunt Museum in Limerick and a live portrait sketching session with artist Catherine Creaven at Galway City Museum.
Art cafés have become a cultural staple in global hubs like London and New York, so one place to celebrate the day is at the newly opened Create & Sip on Dublin’s South William Street. It’s a beginner-friendly space where adults can get into their creative flow and make something without any pressure to be “good” at it.
The menu features a selection of creative activities in two-hour slots, from clay modeling to tile painting and watercolour. Beyond the café sessions, the studio also hosts workshops such as texture or spray paint art and charm or beaded jewellery.
Co-founder Ciara Kavanagh explains; “Create & Sip came from a simple idea – adults don’t really have spaces to just play anymore. We’re big believers that creativity isn’t just for kids; it’s one of the easiest ways to switch off and actually enjoy yourself without overthinking it. We wanted to create something social, creative and genuinely fun, even if you haven’t touched a paintbrush since school.”
Fans of Desenio should also note that original art can now be bought directly from its Stockholm Art Atelier – sure to brighten up any room or home office. Chief Creative Officer Annica Wallin says; “It is a big moment for us and gives our customers the opportunity to own something truly unique; original works created by the artists behind our brand.” The Everything is Art collection explores how inspiration becomes a finished artwork. Worth a look!
