‘Canvas agus Craic’ is installed, in-situ, and ready to view at the Coastguard Cultural Centre in Tramore! The exhibition officially opens as part of the Well Festival of Arts + Wellbeing on 16 February, but it’s already on display. The show ends on the 27 February 2026.
This vibrant exhibition showcases the diversity of style, subject matter and artistic expression within the Open Studio group. From colourful abstracts and self-portraits, to serene landscapes, each piece reflects each artist’s individual approach, inviting viewers to explore a broad spectrum of creativity and imagination.
Open Studio is a weekly art workshop at the Réalta Centre for Arts + Health, which offers a creative and social outlet for people living in the community who may experience isolation due to ill-health or disability. Led by artists Jill Bouchier and Ann Nolan, with support from volunteer Occupational Therapist Sarah Lee, the workshop provides a relaxed, inclusive space where participants can develop their own art projects, connect with others and enjoy the benefits of cultivating a creative practice.
Previous exhibitions by the Open Studio group include Separate Storms at University Hospital Waterford in 2011 and other Well Festival exhibitions including Cupán Tea (2013), The Feel Good Factory (2014), The Feel Good Factory II (2016), This is WHAT we’re all about (2018), Recollections (2020) and Gatherings (2023).
The Well Festival of Arts & Wellbeing celebrates how the arts help us to feel good. Join us in Waterford and online for this year’s festival! Festival dates 2026: Monday 16 – Saturday 21 February. wellwaterford.com
