Art BLAST

Castlebar Educate Together was delighted to participate in the BLAST Arts Residency Programme, an incredible initiative that brings professional artists into schools to foster creativity and innovation. As part of this programme, last year’s 6th class had the privilege of working with visual artist Cas McCarthy through the “Art Blast” project. This unique opportunity allowed students to explore a diverse range of artistic materials and techniques, expanding their creative skills and deepening their appreciation for the arts.

The journey began with an inspiring visit from poet Jean Twomey, who helped the students reflect on their transition from primary to secondary school. Through poetry and discussion, they explored their emotions and thoughts about this significant milestone in their lives. This initial session set the tone for the weeks ahead, where the students engaged in hands-on artistic experiences guided by Cas McCarthy.

Throughout the project, students worked with an exciting array of materials, including charcoal, clay, poster paint, acrylic paint, ink, print, plasticine, and collage. Under Cas’s expert guidance, they developed an understanding of colour temperature and shape, using these elements to express emotions and ideas visually. The creative process encouraged students to think critically about art as a means of communication and self-expression.

The BLAST programme, supported by the Department of Education, is a vital initiative that enriches students’ educational experiences by integrating arts and creativity into the curriculum. It aligns with the Creative Ireland Creative Youth Plan (2023-2027), which emphasizes the importance of fostering creative skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation.

Participating in BLAST has been an immensely rewarding experience for our students. Engaging with a professional artist provided them with fresh perspectives and new techniques that they might not have encountered otherwise. The project also nurtured their confidence, teamwork, and ability to express their feelings through art.

To celebrate their achievements, we held an exhibition of the finished artwork at ATU Castlebar, where students proudly showcased their work to the school community and beyond.

Castlebar Educate Together is proud to have been part of this wonderful initiative. We look forward to continuing our journey with BLAST and embracing the transformative power of the arts in education.