*Photograph: Liam Burke.
This year’s Clare Cruinniú na nÓg promises an exciting array of experiences across 22 locations in the county, featuring over 35 workshops and performances that aim to spark imagination and self-expression.
There are a number of workshops available for children and teens to help them explore a variety of creative fields.
Helen Walsh, County Librarian and Creative Ireland Clare Coordinator, said, “Cruinniú na nÓg is a great opportunity for young people to try something new. From dance and film-making to sketching and music, there is something for everyone. Whether it’s creating magic books, exploring cyanotype printing, or participating in workshops with Clare Youth Services and Helium Arts, the day is packed with inspiring activities”.
Clare museum is hosting ‘Sketch Hunters’ where children between the ages of 8-12 are invited to Clare Museum for a morning of exploration and sketching with visual artist Leigh O’Connell. The participants will be guided in learning how to observe and draw objects found throughout the museum. Each child can then pick their favourite sketch of the day to be included in a temporary exhibition in The Clare Museum.
Clare Youth Service have organised a film Workshop and showcase which will take place in The Pavillion in Lisdoonvarna, where teens between the ages of 14 and 17 will gain hands-on experience and get an insight into the world of filmmaking. The workshop will be led by experienced film maker Shane Vaughan. The participants will also have the opportunity to share their short-films with the community at a public screening.
At Kilkee Community Centre there will be two art workshops for young people aged 10-18. These will teach participants how to create their own illustrations and experiment with watercolours to make vibrant, eye-catching paintings.
Some other highlights are Mini Music Explorers at glór, where the very young can move, sing, and play in a fun-filled early years music workshop. There is also ‘The Big Draw!’, a free-flowing drawing session where participants can create on a giant paper-covered wall. Young artists can try their hand at creating a unique self-portrait using colourful building bricks at Shannon Public Library or explore recycled materials like felt, old clothes, buttons, and wool to craft a recycled portrait in De Valera Library, Ennis.
For older participants, ‘Cruinniú Late’ offers the opportunity to join ‘Night Beats Music Tech Lab’, a hands-on digital music workshop from 6pm to 9pm, culminating in a live showcase at 9pm where young people can perform, remix, and DJ their own music
Eva Birdthistle, Creative Communities Engagement Officer, Clare County Council, added “Cruinniú na nÓg in Clare promises a day filled with imagination, discovery, and creative fun for children and young people of all ages. All workshops and events are free of charge and therefore booking early is recommended.”
