Sligo’s Dream Horizons – A Celebration of Local Creativity exhibition open in Sligo

People who are supported by HSE Disability Services’ Ballytivnan Training Centre are taking part in an inspiring new art exhibition called Sligo’s Dream Horizons.The exhibition opened in the ATU Library, Sligo on Tuesday 25th November 2025.

Running for two weeks until 12th December, members of the public are encouraged to attend the exhibition and view the collection. Under the guidance of art tutor, Jenny Cooper, the collection showcases the artists’ unique perspectives on Sligo, highlighting the county’s scenic beauty and cultural landmarks through their own creative vision.

The project has received fantastic support and collaboration from Johanna Archbold and the team at Sligo ATU’s Library, who have been instrumental in bringing this exhibition to life. Artist Catherine, one of the contributors to the exhibition, shared her excitement about the project: “It feels amazing to see our work on display for everyone to enjoy. I loved being involved, I feel very proud of what we have achieved.”

Art tutor Jenny Cooper added, “We are delighted to share the creativity and talent of our artists with the wider community. Each piece reflects the individuality, imagination, and pride the artists have in Sligo. Members of the public are encouraged to visit the exhibition during library opening hours and support this uplifting community event celebrating inclusion, creativity, and local partnership.”

Dr Johanna Archbold, Head Librarian, Yeats Library ATU Sligo said, “This collaboration with the HSE Ballytivnan Training Centre reflects our belief that an academic library should be a place where creativity, inclusion and community meet. The artists’ work brings fresh vibrant perspectives on Sligo’s landmarks, landscape and built heritage. We are honoured to host and celebrate the creative talent of the Ballytivnan artists here in the Yeats Library, and make it available for our students, staff and the wider public until 12th December 2025. Collaborations like this enrich our campus, strengthen our local ties, highlight the value of shared artistic expression and remind us that learning and inspiration flow in many directions.”

Winnie Connolly, HSE Disability Services Manager said, “Ballytivnan Training Centre is enormously proud to present our art exhibition “Sligo’s Dream Horizons” to the community. Displaying art outside traditional service facilities in public spaces breaks down the walls between art and everyday life, making it more accessible and inclusive for all. Art offers people with a disability a powerful voice – a way to express, connect and celebrate their unique perspectives. The art work on display is part of a community mapping process and acknowledges that individuals, organisations/groups, and physical places all have the capacity to create real change in our shared communities and gives an opportunity to make new contacts and learn what is available in the community. It allows the community to be evaluated and to identify amenities that are potentially missing or need enhancement as well as allowing community members to get to know people with a disability and learn about their support services.”