Photos: jbs photos
Some Kilkenny folk will know where the Auxiliary hospital is in Kilkenny. For those who are unsure as to the location, it is that building on Wolfe Tone Street with the Mick Minogue elephant artwork on the outside wall. The venue is home to T.A.S.K
TASK (Training and Support Kilkenny) is a full time rehabilitative training programme for adults. They are part of the Kilkenny mental health service. Their programme helps people to improve and maintain mental well being, develop coping strategies and self care skills, and primarily regain confidence.
The workforce provide training and workshops in such areas as gardening, horticulture, furniture upcycling, camera club, sports and recreation as well as health and well-being. Another string to their bow is the provision of spaces to a number of artists many of whom were part of the Fringe Arts festival 2024.
One such showing is a joint exhibition, with works by Tia Vellani and Jeanie McDonald and
which was launched by TASK volunteer Cathal Mac Farlane who introduced the two artists.
Congratulating both artists, Cathal reminded the gathering that it takes a lot more than just being good with pencil and brush to stage an exhibition. It was, he said, the proverbial case of blood, sweat and tears.
McFarlane reminded the gathering of the old story that while it can take four hours to knock a tree, it’s advised to spend three of those hours sharpening the axe.
Cathal explained that it had been his privilege to observe both artists sharpening that axe, sourcing materials, discussing ideas, trying to encourage the work to continue through the dark days, to eventually reach fruition.
One of the founding members of the AKA festival, Mr McFarlane paid tribute to TASK for facilitating the artists with the space to operate from.
Exhibiting at the former hospital Jeanie McDonald and Tia Vellani thanked all for attending the launch.
CREATIVITY
Jeanie is a vibrant and unconventional artist whose work defies categorization and embraces the beautiful chaotic nature of creativity. With a passion for exploring the depths of human emotion and the intricacies of the world around her , Jeanie’s art is reflection of her unique perspective and spirited personality.
Her pieces often challenge societal norms and expectations and with a playful t introspective approach as Jeanie invites her audience to explore the complexities of life , identity and the human experience.
CONNECTIONS
Tia Vellani is an artist with a background in music and genetics. She explores connections between art, science, social responsibilities and emotional well being. Tia produces multi media projects in collaboration scientists, dancers musicians and artists. Apart from painting Tia also produces sculptures drawings, installations tapestries , digital art and musical compositions .
Her work has been exhibited in Europe and North America.
Concluding his talk, Cathal said that we should all take some pride in the fact that we can decide , with dedication and focus, to knock and remove the obstacles and walls that can sometimes block our progression. When this is done, we welcome in the public to see what projects are available to those on the recovery road one of those being art and how expression is often the opposite of depression.
“It is particularly gratifying”, said Cathal, “to note that no less than five of the artists who use the studio space at the Auxiliary are exhibiting during the festival.” On behalf of the TASK team, Cathal sent good wishes to Eoghan O’Driscoll ( Langtons) Claire Mulcahy ( Constituency office, The Parade) and Oliver Bennett (upstairs at Dunnes)
