Room to Explore, An Exhibition for 0-5 year olds

18 May – 11 August 2024 

Curated by Anne Cradden 

We are delighted to present Room to Explore, an Exhibition for 0-5 year olds’ featuring art works by early years artists Helen Barry, Anne Bradley, Jane Hayes and Órla Kelly. The exhibition is curated by Anne Cradden.  The exhibition opens at the Gallery, Level 3, dlr LexIcon on 18 May 2024. 

The artwork in this exhibition tests and challenges the possibilities of visual art for very young children. Taking a very gentle, mindful, and respectful approach to the lived experience of young children, the artists have used carefully considered materials and approaches. They have created pieces that encourage children to interact with – or simply observe – textures, materials, colours, and sound, all presented in an intimate and playful environment. 

The artists have years of experience making work in collaboration with young children to facilitate thoughtful, stimulating, and joyful encounters. Their work is both a recognition and exploration of the creative potential of the very young child and the importance of experiences at this age, in line with current research on early childhood development.  

The exhibition is designed to be visited and revisited by children and their caregivers and allows for ‘Room to Explore’. 'Two More Sleeps' the artworks by Helen Barry were co-created with children and early years educators from Shanganagh Park House Community Childcare Service. This was a special commission in partnership with dlr Children and Young People's Services Committee, Shanganagh Park House and dlr Arts Office. The Commission was funded by Creative Ireland as part of Cruinniú na nÓg 2024.

Make sure and come to our free workshops and special events for children and adults. 

More information here