Novas Brother Russell House Clients Art Exhibition

Pictured: David Mulcaire, art student, artist Rachel Thunder and Shauna O Donnell, art student at the art exhibition at the Novas Brother Russell House. Photo: Oisin Mchugh True Media

On Tuesday 15th May Novas Brother Russell House held an art exhibition of the client’s work. The art included beautiful paintings and sculptures all created by the residents living using materials such as fish wire, coins, buttons, chalk and paint.

Twice a week art classes are taught in the service by artist Rachel Thunder, who sets up a studio in one of the apartments in situ. The classes run for two hours and are a therapeutic outlet for clients. They support residents to build confidence, are a means of communication and are a social outlet for residents that have difficulties engaging in the wider community.

Pictured: Sean Patterson, an art student at the art exhibition at the Novas Brother Russell House. Photo: Oisin Mchugh True Media

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Many of those participating in the classes suffer from mental, physical and sensory disabilities and art is a successful therapeutic engagement that enables them to express themselves in a new way. The residents were very excited to highlight their work at the exhibition and Deputy Manager of Novas Brother Russell House, Denise Curtin, remarked on how important the occasion was for the residents; ‘the exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for the resident’s work to be recognised by a wider audience. They are so proud of what they have achieved and were blown away by the response to their art today. The art is a very important outlet for our clients who often experience difficulties expressing themselves. It has transformed some of their lives.’

Guests were treated to a beautiful lunch which was cooked by residents, following a four-week training course by Novas’ cook Fionnuala O’Brien.

The service is currently fundraising for a new dedicated art space in the service that residents can utilise at any time.

Novas set up its first service in Ireland in 2002. Funded by the HSE and the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government it provides services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Working with families, children and single adults who are disadvantaged or socially excluded, it offers client centred services and promotes social justice. It provides services in Limerick, Dublin, Kerry, Tipperary, Clare and Cork.

For Further information contact Una Burns, Communications, Development and New Business Manager, Novas, 061 370325, 083 1083726.

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