Kildare Social Inclusion Week 2024 Launches with Vibrant Arts and Crafts Exhibition
Kildare Social Inclusion Week 2024 kicked off in style with a Community Arts and Crafts Exhibition, held at Newbridge Town Hall on Monday, September 23. The event, which celebrated the creativity of local artists and makers, was organised collaboratively by Newbridge Disability Access Group and Kare.
The idea for the exhibition originally emerged from the fact that many of Kare’s service users spend time on various arts and crafts projects, but often don’t have the chance to display their work to a wider audience. This sparked the thought—there must be others in the community who face a similar situation. From there, the idea grew into something much bigger: a showcase event that could bring creative people from all over the county together to celebrate their talents.
The exhibition did just that, providing a relaxed, social environment where people could meet like-minded individuals, share ideas, and discover local art and hobby groups they might not have known about. Attendees were able to see a diverse range of creative works, from handcrafted textiles and ceramics to paintings and sculptures, all reflecting the talent and passion of artists from various backgrounds and abilities.
The event wasn’t just about showcasing art—it was also about fostering connection. It offered a chance for creative individuals to come together, exchange ideas for future projects, and find new inspiration. This inclusive gathering highlighted the importance of creativity in building community ties and promoting social inclusion.
Special guest, broadcaster, and Newbridge resident Keith Walsh was on hand to deliver a powerful speech on the small actions that can make a big difference in creating an inclusive society. Walsh’s message, “If everybody did one nice thing today, imagine the ripple effect that would have in a county like Kildare,” inspired many in attendance to reflect on their own contributions to community life.
The exhibition was a huge success, drawing support from a wide range of local community members and marking a fantastic start to Kildare Social Inclusion Week 2024. As the week progresses, events like this continue to emphasize the importance of inclusion, creativity, and connection in building stronger, more inclusive communities across the county.
