A scene from the poplar Crowded Thresholds exhibition last year in the Luan Gallery.

Budding young artists wanted for Athlone exhibition

Luan Gallery in Athlone is inviting young budding artists aged 4 – 17 years to create and submit two-dimensional artworks that address the theme of `Memories′ for a virtual exhibition to be launched by the Mayor of Athlone and Moate Municipal District on June 12 as part of the national Crúinniu na nÓg celebrations.

This opportunity is inclusive to all children and teenagers from Athlone, neighbouring localities, and Westmeath. Children may submit 2D artworks in the form of paintings, prints, photographic prints, drawings, textiles etc. to be considered for the virtual exhibition to celebrate Crúinniu na nÓg 2021.

Three artworks will be selected and awarded first, second and third prizes in each of the age categories; 4- 7 years, 8 – 12 years and 13 – 17 years.

These nine artworks and other shortlisted artworks will be included in the virtual art exhibition. The three prizes in each age category are 1st Prize: €50 voucher for Arts and Hobby, 2nd Prize: €30 voucher for Arts and Hobby and 3rd Prize: €20 voucher for Arts and Hobby.

Children and their parents can find out all the details about this art competition and exhibition on www.luangallery.ie under events. All entries must be sent by post to Luan Gallery, Elliott Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath by Friday, May 21.

This creative activity aims to encourage children of all ages to reflect on their interpretation of memories. The theme of ‘Memories’ is broad and was chosen to encourage young artists to consider their very own personal memories and to think about and choose which memory stands out or means the most to them.

Children can choose to make an art piece that reflects a place, time, person, or item from their past or choose to draw an abstract piece that illustrates how they feel when they reflect on their memories. Is it a good or bad memory? Are your memories clear or faded? Are their memories connected to something they have missed during the Covid-19 restrictions? Is it a favourite hobby or pastime? The theme was inspired by Colm Mac Athlaoich's solo exhibition 'Percept' which will be on display in Luan Gallery when the gallery re-opens until early July. Children are welcome to visit this exhibition (when it is safe to do so) or view the works on Luan Gallery’s social channels and website for inspiration.

Mayor Cllr Aengus O’Rourke will announce the winners from all three age categories and launch the virtual exhibition via zoom on Saturday, June 12 for Crúinniu na nÓg. All competition entrants and their parents will receive an invitation to join the launch via Zoom.

All exhibition competition entries must be sent by post to Luan Gallery, Elliott Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath by Friday, May 21. Further details on the competition can be found on www.luangallery.ie under events or by emailing info@luangallery.ie

The art competition and the ‘Memories’ Virtual Exhibition are supported by Creative Ireland and Westmeath County Council.