Local writer leads creative programme at Roscommon hospital

Residents and staff at Roscommon's Sacred Heart Hospital recently took part in Arts for Connection, a four-week artist-led creative programme curated by award-winning writer, poet and creative facilitator Amy Abdullah Barry.

The programme brought together poetry, storytelling, visual art, song and live music in a series of gentle, participatory sessions designed to foster wellbeing, encourage meaningful connection, and promote self-expression among residents. Amy collaborated with visual artist, Deirdre Hannon, musician, Ciaran Harte and singer, Anthony Merrigan.

Reflecting on the project, Amy said: "I am delighted to have had this meaningful opportunity to engage with the residents. Through the creative process, art becomes both a cultural and human experience, affirming each participant's dignity, identity and voice."

Amy Abdullah Barry is a short story writer and poet whose work has been translated into Spanish, Italian, Arabic, Turkish, Irish and Malay. She regularly organises poetry and music events in Athlone, Dublin and Roscommon, and has performed her work throughout Ireland and internationally.

Amy continues to receive national recognition for her writing. Her winning poem, The Funk Concert on Rheingau won the Subscribers' Poetry Competition 2026 was published in issue 50 of Southword.

She was also one of five poets shortlisted for the Strokestown Poetry Festival International Poetry Competition 2026 from almost 700 entries.

Her debut poetry collection, Flirting with Tigers, was published by Dedalus Press in 2023, and she is currently working on her second collection.

Colette Carrol, Head Nurse at Sacred Heart Hospital, praised the project and its impact on residents: "A massive thank you for your very special project. The feedback from the residents was overwhelmingly positive. One resident said, 'I loved it. Is she coming back?' Another simply said, 'It was beautiful.'

"From day one, your connection and engagement with the residents were fantastic. The creativity, colour and conversation gave everyone a wonderful shared experience. We all know how beneficial art and creativity are for older people, helping to maintain cognitive function and mental agility, build friendships, and reduce stress and anxiety. We are deeply grateful for your time, expertise, and for leaving us with a beautiful piece of art and lasting memories."

Amy extends her sincere thanks to Creative Ireland for the continued support in making the project possible.