'Sensing Lannagh' celebrated at leading Mayo arts centre
The Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar has welcomed a full and enthusiastic audience on to celebrate Sensing Lannagh, an inclusive arts project created in collaboration with students from A.T.U. Mayo Project WAVE, led by visual artist Emma Donoghue and musical duo Irish Lights.
Sensing Lannagh grew from the UPSTART Award from Mayo Arts Office, which supports meaningful art experiences tailored to persons with disabilities.
The Linenhall embarked on a new partnership with students from ATU Project WAVE—a two-year programme offering adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to attend college and receive social, academic, and vocational support.
The participating WAVE students—Marc Bolger, Sarah Connolly, Deirdre Gavin, Lauren McNamara, Mary Ruane, and Anna Tobin—worked closely with the Linenhall team over multiple workshops, immersing themselves in artistic processes such as natural-materials, textile work, and creative reuse of recycled materials.
Workshops were led by artist Emma Donoghue.
A specially selected soundscape, developed with Irish Lights, further enriched the experience for students.
The creative process also benefited from the support of Sinéad Mulhern (ATU Student Success Coach), Alisha McDonnell (ATU Education Support Worker), Jeanette Kilroy (ATU Academic Lead), and Justyna Gruszczyk, Alekandra Schulte, Viktoria Filipovska, & Svitlana Frankova, Linenhall community team.
All of the pieces created for Sensing Lannagh are designed to stimulate the senses, spark imagination, and build awareness of both the biodiversity of Lough Lannagh and the diverse sensory needs within our community.
One of the most special moments in the workshops was listening to students talk about Lough Lannagh means to them.
Summer evenings kayaking on the Lough, insects, and fauna all feature in the art works.
“We are thankful to the large turnout for the opening of this exhibition. It was wonderful for the six ATU Project WAVE students to see first-hand the joy their exhibition inspires.
"Lough Lannagh and its amenities are cherished by all in Castlebar and it’s fantastic to see this recognised by ATU Mayo Students” Deirdre Melvin, Arts Access Officer Linenhall.
There was also a double cause for celebration, as composer Benjamin Fox released the dreamy exhibition soundtrack, Lough Lannagh, on digital platforms during the event.
Sensing Lannagh highlights the power of creativity to connect people, celebrate diverse abilities, and explore the rich biodiversity of Lough Lannagh through tactile, interactive artworks.
The art exhibition runs daily in the Linenhall Foyer Gallery until Saturday, January 17, 2026.
For further information please visit www.thelinenhall.com