Get creative this National Drawing Day at Luan Gallery
People from Co Westmeath are invited to grab a pencil and paper to celebrate National Drawing Day on Saturday, May 20. Now in its nineteenth year, this much loved event will see the National Gallery of Ireland collaborate with over 50 art centres, museums and libraries nationwide, including Luan Gallery in Athlone.
National Drawing Day began at the National Gallery of Ireland in 2005. Since then, the initiative has blossomed, with thousands of people taking part each year all over Ireland. National Drawing Day is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. Events, whether onsite, offsite or online, encourage and support access to the arts for all, regardless of age, ability or social circumstances.
Sinéad Rice, Head of Education at the National Gallery of Ireland, said: “National Drawing Day is a true highlight of our year here at the National Gallery of Ireland, and we’re delighted to be celebrating it again on Saturday 20th May 2023 with partners across the length and breadth of Ireland. Wherever you are, you’ll find something happening near you - National Drawing Day is for all ages and abilities, and not just artists! It is about celebrating the most fundamental method of creative expression; making your mark, and we hope that everyone will join us making marks this May.”
Other exiting activities happening across the country on National Drawing Day include a workshop for grandparents and grandchildren with artist Chelsea Canavan in the Excel Arts Centre (Tipperary), a drawing session with artist Val McLoughlin at Ballina Arts Centre (Mayo) and a Picasso inspired workshop for teens at the Hunt Museum (Limerick).
Elsewhere, Experience Glasnevin (Dublin) will hold stained glass themed workshops, and the International Literature Festival (Dublin) will facilitate a ‘Wine and Design’ event at their festival village in Merrion Square, Dublin 2.
Visitors who cannot attend in person events on National Drawing Day are invited to join a full range of online activities. A list of participating venues; the schedule for the day at the National Gallery of Ireland; and drawing activities and resources can be found on a dedicated National Drawing Day hub at nationalgallery.ie. People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to find the joy in drawing on May 20 as there really is something for everyone!