Return of popular Donegal Art Exhibition

Jigsaw were delighted to partner with Mind your Melon for the much-anticipated relaunch of their successful art competition and exhibition.

Young people from secondary schools and Youthreachs across Donegal collaborated to encourage young people to explore their mental health through art. From the 21 January to the 2 February, the entries were featured in public exhibition at An Grianan Theatre. A prize-giving event was then held to celebrate all the young people who took part in the competition.

Winner

Siobhan Maguire

Ciaran Mcloone

Chairperson of Connect Mental Health

The art exhibition fits perfectly with the Mind Your Melon programme, which focuses on activities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Art is a powerful tool for self-care and self-expression, as demonstrated by the fantastic art-work created by the young people of Donegal

Participants

Nadia Rahman, Loreto Letterkenny; Davin Coyle, Gairmscoil Chu Uladh; Hannah Delaney, Youthreach Lifford/Letterkenny and Ayesha Tshimbudzi, Colaiste Ailigh. with Amy McRory, Jigsaw (far left) and Ciaran McGlone, Connect Mental Health (far right)

Amy McRory

Youth and Community Engagement Worker with Jigsaw

We were absolutely blown away by the creativity and talent shown by all the young people who took part in the art exhibition. It is so important we continue to provide platforms for young people to express their thoughts, emotions & unique perspectives in such creative ways.

Siobhan Maguire

Student

I have always heard great things about Jigsaw. I saw the poster in the school’s art room and felt the theme of "Growth" appealed to me. My painting was created using acrylic paint and paper. The lady in the piece shows resistance to life’s hardships. Her hands show how a person can grow even during such hardships. The colour red shows life, positivity, and hope. I am thrilled my painting was chosen this year and I loved looking at all the work done by the others.

Emma Alcorn- Curran

Youth Advocate

Taking part in the Art Exhibition was such an enjoyable process. From our initial idea to relaunch the Art Competition, to setting the theme, to judging it, it was all so enjoyable for me. I was delighted to get to see the artists behind the art at our prize giving. To see so many happy faces showing off their art is exactly what they deserve

Davin Coyle

Student

I’m just so thankful to get recognized for the honesty and vulnerability in my piece. I hope it brings inspiration to others for the future."