Latest ArtUa Limerick exhibition shows the therapeutic power of art

The latest ArtUa Limerick exhibition of works from The Redemptorists Church Art Studio was unveiled at Dooradoyle Library on Thursday, September 19.

The latest Redemptorist Church ArtUa Limerick arts studio exhibition led by artist Lyubov Makarenko highlights the therapeutic power of art

The latest exhibition of works from ArtUa Limerick at the The Redemptorists Church Art Studio was unveiled at Dooradoyle Library on Thursday, September 19.

The latest exhibition theme highlights the therapeutic power of art in helping individuals process difficult emotions, particularly in the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Since July 2022, Lyubov Makarenko has held children and adult art classes at the Redemptorist Church, welcoming more than 40 participants ahead 6 to 76 from diverse backgrounds to an inviting and safe space.

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The classes, attended by Ukrainians, Belarusians, Georgians, Germans, and other residents of Limerick, go beyond teaching artistic techniques; they provide emotional and psychological support, fostering a sense of community for immigrants facing hardship.

In August 2022, the first city exhibition of Art Studio participants took place and the current exhibition showcases the studio’s work from 2023 to 2024, featuring almost 50 works of art in various mediums.

The art on display comes from mediums including graphics with gel pen, pencil, and monotype; painting using watercolor, gouache, acrylic, oils; and decorative art such as painting on ceramics and fabric. The works span genres like landscape, cityscape, abstract compositions, and portraiture, each reflecting the personal journey and creative expression of the artists.

Thanks to the support of Father Seamus and his friendly colleagues, a suitable space for art classes was organised, he provided the impetus and helped officially establish the studio and since then Father Brian, Rector of the Redemptorist Church of Saint Alphonso Ligorio, took over the support of the art classes.

Most of Ms Lyuba’s students began their creative journey without any previous drawing experience. For them, these classes served as their first introduction to the basics of fine art. The educational process was full of discoveries and exciting moments as students, step by step, mastered various techniques and methods, learning to work with color, form, and composition. 

Most importantly, these lessons became a genuine support for each participant, transforming into a form of art therapy. In these creative classes, people found not only artistic inspiration but also an opportunity for spiritual communication, exchanging thoughts and feelings with those who share their experiences and aspirations. 

The exhibition is a vivid result of this fascinating path of self-discovery, demonstrating how art can become a means of self-expression and a way to explore one’s inner world. The works included in the exhibition, particularly those depicting cityscapes and scenes, embody the personal creative ideas of the artists. Each piece tells its own story and reflects the author’s unique vision.