The Niland Collection, Sligo’s municipal collection of art has grown to include over 300 works, with the recent acquisition of 18 portraits of young Sligo citizens, painted by internationally renowned artists Geraldine O’Neill and Mick O’Dea. Engaging children and young people in direct experiences with the collection is vital to its role as a living repository of art, culture and ideas. 

Frame the Future will promote this further by creating an innovative and inclusive opportunity for children to access and engage with the collection first hand. Original artworks from The Niland Collection will be installed in bespoke frames in a number primary schools in Sligo. The framing device will be designed to protect the paintings but also to create a mini viewing field for children to appreciate the works in a public area in their school. The paintings will remain in the schools from September to November 2024.

The project will be activated by an artist-in-school mini residency. The artist will visit each of the schools and create drawings on site. The children will experience an original artwork from The Niland Collection, as well as the opportunity to witness an artist at work on their school grounds throughout the season. Tours of the Niland Collection and contemporary exhibition will also be offered as part of the package. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.