This project aims to provide an opportunity for participants of the Loughrea Men’s Shed to collaborate with artists based in Loughrea in a supportive, creative environment. The project encourages exploration, playfulness, and self-expression through hands-on artistic processes.

The project will begin with drawing and paper-based design exercises, allowing participants to develop ideas and experiment with form and imagery. These initial designs will then be translated into three-dimensional works using air-drying clay. As a water-based, non-toxic, and accessible material, air-drying clay is ideal for sculptural exploration without the need for a kiln. Its pliability allows for easy shaping and blending, and once dry, it hardens to a stone-like finish, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced makers.

A key element of the project is to encourage participants to reconnect with their inner child, embrace play, and work intuitively rather than striving for perfection. The emphasis is on the human touch: works will remain deliberately unpolished, celebrating imperfections and individuality.

Through conversations with participants, ideas began to flow organically, leading to the development of a sculptural intervention responding to the stone walls of East Galway. These walls, rich with history and character, become both inspiration and site for the work for many of the Mens shed particpants. The sculptures will act as a form of “talking walls,” introducing new narratives.

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