Opening soon, a new art exhibition will delight babies, toddlers and small kids
It might be baby’s first art exhibition.
The artist behind a new solo show is inviting Cork families with young children to experience a special treat in The Lord Mayor’s Pavilion in Fitzgerald’s Park.
Sample-Studios presents First Impressions, a new exhibition by local artist Jane Hayes and inspired by her young sons, running from June 12th to July 20th as part of Cork Midsummer Festival.
Created for early years audiences and their families, this joyful show includes a striking giant kaleidoscope sculpture, atmospheric digital animation, tactile textile works, and playful photography. The best bit? It’s free to go along and check it out.
Visitors of all ages are invited to form their own First Impression at the the Opening Reception on Saturday, June 14th from 12pm–2pm in The Lord Mayor’s Pavilion.
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Experience art together
Hayes is Wexford-born, Cork-based multi-award-winning visual artist whose lived experience as a mother of three drives her to create art for young children, particularly those aged under six. Her artistic practice aims to make galleries and art more accessible for these early years audiences by making art that prioritises the voice of the child.
“This exhibition creates space for families to experience visual art together in a way that’s thoughtful, accessible, and shaped by children’s perspectives.” Hayes explained.
“I’m excited to premiere these new and innovative works in Cork, where audiences will be the first to experience this next stage in my practice. It is part of my ongoing mission to make galleries more inclusive for young audiences.”
The exhibition also features two additional sculptural works that explore form, scale, and material in joyful and surprising ways, created with the support of Cork-based makers Davy Dummigan and Joan Hickson.
Visitors are also invited to explore a dream-like digital animation, featuring a richly layered soundscape composed by Carl Kennedy. A hand-tufted wool rug, created in collaboration with Ceadogán Rugmakers in Wexford, provides a soft, welcoming element that reflects the warmth and physical ease of early childhood.
Photographic works—some integrated into sculptures, others presented independently—include contributions from both the artist and photographer Zé Bateira.
