Amy’s work goes on display
A talented artist from Cork is set to make history as one of 14 artists with intellectual disabilities exhibiting at the Royal Hibernian of Arts (RHA) in Dublin.
From Newmarket, Amy Begley’s journey, marked by resilience and artistic talent, will be on display at the RHA as part of the Connecting Artists Collective, a groundbreaking group of artists living with intellectual disabilities.
This inaugural exhibition is organised by Connections Arts Centre (CAC), a social enterprise supporting the disability community in Ireland.
CAC, founded by Miriam Spollen, is dedicated to creating a positive social impact by championing arts, lifestyle, and educational programs that bridge educational gaps, counteract devaluation, and promote inclusivity for people with disabilities.
Miriam designed the Connecting Artists programme, the precursor to the CA Collective, to assist visual artists with intellectual disabilities in refining their artistic skills.
Established in 2022, the Connecting Artists programme annually supports 10 artists with intellectual disabilities from around the county.
This dynamic online initiative fosters their artistic development.
The success of the programme led to the formation of the CA Collective, representing a continued commitment by Connections Arts Centre to empower artists within the disability community
The exhibition not only celebrates the artistic expression of these talented individuals but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of art in the disability community.
Amy Begley expressed her pride in exhibiting at such a prestigious venue: “I believe in the power of individuality and the strength that comes from embracing our unique abilities.”
The CA Collective exhibition at the RHA is not just a display of art; it's a testament to the diverse talents within the disability community.
“Through support, understanding, and awareness, we can create a world where individuals, regardless of abilities, can thrive in their chosen pursuits. I am thrilled to be showcasing my art alongside other accomplished artists.”
Miriam Spollen, CEO, and Founder of Connections Arts Centre, highlighted the importance of such exhibitions, stating: “The CA Collective exhibition is a milestone for artists like Amy. It's not just an art display; it's a statement about the richness and diversity of artistic talent within the disability community. We're proud to provide a platform for these artists to shine.”
For more, visit connectionsartscentre.ie.