From Ireland to Exeter: Works From the Kilkenny Collective for Arts Talent

George McCutcheon, Bird in the Sky, Colored pencil on paper

The Kilkenny Collective for Arts Talent (KCAT) was founded by the Camphill Communities of Ireland in 1996 to facilitate the artistic development of seven individuals with a range of disabilities. In 1999, a permanent center was opened in a former sausage factory building in Callan County, Kilkenny. Since 2005, KCAT has offered visual arts courses for people with all abilities within this new facility, which also includes a theatre performance course based on the same inclusive principles.

The visual artists work in an open studio and a studio in which artists with disabilities are supported in all aspects of their professional development. There are presently 13 artists who work towards solo and group exhibitions, take on commissions and collaborate with other artists and organizations in Ireland and abroad. The four artists whose work is represented in this exhibition are all part of this group.

George McCutcheon

George McCutcheon is the creative inspiration behind the original KCAT impulse. After painting and building works using found objects for several years, he embarked on art training, sharing the studio of local artists. After seven years of leading the way of the developing KCAT studio he is now also part of the group pioneering the theatre aspect in KCAT. He recently completed a large-scale mosaic for a new medical center in Kilkenny.

Sinead Fahey, Tulips I, Ink, Colored pencil on paper

Sinead Fahey has developed a strong visual language with graphic undertones that are appealing to many. This became even more obvious last year when she was invited to co-design a parade for 250 performers and an audience of more than 60,000 between three performances.

Margaret Walker, Birds of a Feather, Acrylic on board

Margaret Walker has recently moved from painting to working with fibers and fabrics: “It has meant a lot to me coming here every day. In every way. I live on my own and it’s an outlet. I knew nothing about art when I came here and I am stil learning. If I hadn’t come here I’m sure I’d be doing something else but it’s behind me now and I’m glad I’m here. For years I said ‘I’m not able’ but I am able to do a little bit now. Give me another ten years and I’ll be great.”

Karl Fitzgerald, Surf at Dawn, Watercolor on paper

Karl Fitzgerald is a painter for whom every brushstroke is a physical effort Over the years, he has been influenced by the Irish landscape and weather, and has built an impressive body of work that explores subtle differences in mood and atmosphere. Karl just finished painting a series of glass panels for the quiet room of Carlow’s regional hospital.

View the exhibition invitation...

Read the press release...