Women display their artistic talents

AN EXCITING and diverse array of work by women currently involved in the '5 to 6 Project', goes on show for this year's Arts Festival.

Entitled 'Lifecycles' the exhibition opens at the 5 to 6 House at No 7 Bridgewater, Dean Street, Kilkenny, on August 8, and continues to August 16.

The exhibition reveals themes that run throughout the womens’ work, in particular stages of life and their relationship to the natural world.

Patterns of three can be observed throughout the exhibition and a theatrical display of handmade hats awaits the visitor at the top of the house, under the roof.

Through a mixture of media including drawing, painting, photgraphy, craft, sculpture and installation, the exhibition evokes some of the ideas at the forefront of the minds of the women involved in a thoughtful, creative and playful manner. Coordinated by the Butler Gallery, the '5 to 6 Project' is an inclusive arts-based programme facilitated by artist Gypsy Ray for women from Kilkenny City and County.

The project is for women who are interested in meeting other women, having fun and using their imagination. Through the project, women develop their artistic skills or rediscover old skills, while gaining or reawakening an understanding of art. It provides life-long learning by supporting womens’ development at a personal, social, cultural, political and economic level, while forging links with the wider community.

It has been in operation since 2006 and takes place at No 7 Bridgewater on Dean Street. A ‘routes through’ approach from introductory courses to membership of independent studio groups is central to the ethos of the Project.

The diversity of the participants is also central to its operation and continued success. And the ongoing waiting list is a testimony to the dedication and enthusiasm of staff, participants and supporters.

“Being part of 5 to 6 has been one of the most creative and exploratory times for me”, one of the participants tole 'Kilkenny Alive'. “I felt stretched and challenged and very pleased with what I've been able to achieve artistically.” Organised by participating women and curated by artist, art historian and educator Mary Ann Gelly, 'Lifecycles' represents a curious and illuminating body of work, platforming a cross-section of work by the women in a showcase that reveals the dedication, motivation and passion of those involved.

The 5 to 6 Women are inviting the public to go along to 7 Bridgewater at Dean Street to view their work at what they describe as “an important time in the lifecycle of the 5 to 6 Project” during the Arts Festival.
Opening Reception Sunday August 9 at 3pm.

Opening hours Monday – Friday 11am – 4pm, late opening Thursday and Friday until 8pm.

While coordinated by the Butler Gallery, the '5 to 6 Project' is funded on a regular basis by Kilkenny County Council. In the past, funding has also been received from the Health Service Executive, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Per Cent for Art scheme, Pobail Capital Expenses, Barrow Nore Suir Leader funds, the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform and the National Development Plan, among other supporters.