Athlone studio seeking residency applications from artists
Athlone Arts and Tourism Ltd are now accepting short and long term studio residency applications for the facility at Abbey Road Artists’ Studios which is a resource for artists of all disciplines set in the heart of Athlone town.
In addition to 24 hour studio access, the successful applicant will have access to wi-fi internet and free parking. Moreover, the chosen artist will receive administrative and marketing support in areas such as proposal writing and funding applications from the Athlone Arts and Tourism team. Studio artists also enjoy discounted rates for workshops, lectures, talks and events run by Athlone Arts and Tourism Ltd.
Past artists at Abbey Road Artists’ Studios include established artists such as Lesley Wingfield, Catherine Rock, Ann McGuinness, Geraldine Kretsch, Lawrence O’Neill, Margo McNulty, Lucy Kelly Desmond, Carol Kelly and Paul Timoney who each work in a variety of media including, printmaking, painting, embroidery and performance. Current studio residents are Rosemarie Langtry and Rose Finerty who work in a variety of methods including encaustic, graphic painting and acrylic or emulsion on both canvas and wood.
Emilia Krysztofiak, administrative assistant said: ‘We see our residencies as the beginning of a relationship. When an artist leaves, we continue the relationship and try to support them. Lesley Wingfield for example, former resident now facilitates drawing courses for us. Our current artists facilitate various events and workshops, from arts and crafts summer camps to storytelling and much more. In addition, our current resident artist Rosemarie Langtry has her work on display downstairs in the Boardwalk Gallery as part of her residency contract. Her work caught the eye of visiting representatives of the OPW Arts Management Office who purchased a piece for the State Art Collection. Works in this collection include both historical and contemporary paintings, original prints, sculpture, fine-art and decorative objects, music, and poetry. The Collection is located in State buildings throughout Ireland. It is a great success for the artist and shows the strength of the art network our residents artists are part of.’
The studios are intrinsically linked with Luan Gallery, a sister arts venue also managed by Athlone Arts and Tourism Ltd. This link presents possible workshop facilitation and exhibition opportunities in addition to access to a strong professional arts network.
Studios are priced from €100 per month, including all utilities.
Submissions guidelines for applicants can be found on Athlone Arts and Tourism website www.athloneartsandtourism.ie