Muse in the Gallery in April
A residential and a daily programme and each offer different kinds of support for artists reconnecting with their creativity.
This is an invitation that is very close to my own heart. Being a gallery owner, an artist and an art therapist does not necessarily mean that I have not at times noticed that my creative spark has wandered off for a while leaving me bereft. So this year, Muse in the Gallery in April is reassurance that your creativity hasn’t left you – its simply waiting to be called back.
Losing our creative way is, I believe, a situation many artists find themselves in but few seem willing to share. It is far more common - and far more human - than it feels when we are in the middle of it. It rarely happens all at once, I believe in my case it was a slow drift caused by extra responsibilities, a major derelict building renovation, health worries, caregiving and even the demands of daily routines that quietly took over the space where creativity once lived. Then before I knew it my studio became more of a store room, my visits to my easel were less frequent and my confidence took a hit, I became hesitant and allowed my mind to question my worth. But as they say ‘enough about me!’
Imagine then the next weighty layer, where it is difficult to hold your own in a world that measures worth by who is welcome and who is left outside. I have at times felt that within the art world there has been a strong line of gatekeepers who act both unconsciously and knowingly in a careless fashion towards others. Possibly this is just as common in other areas of life also, but I find myself wishing that our creative world would not need to stand on the same faulty foundations as our political and economic ones. Foundations of gatekeeping, scarcity and hierarchy.
So, getting back to Muse in the Gallery in April and totally welcoming the artist who has been in the company of self- doubt and hesitation for too long, April is a good time to join in the struggle, to risk making something new or to revisit sketches, half-formed thoughts or even a neglected piece started many moons ago that has been waiting patiently for our return.
I believe art does not need walls I know it needs company and courage. I would not for one minute underestimate the fear of non- engagement in our own creativity, that fear is real, it is powerful and often invisible to others. Nor would I from personal experience underestimate the impact a lack of generosity from fellow artists can have on a fledgling or a returning artist. But best not dwell in that arena where art is like a ladder and unhealthy hierarchies are reinforced. I am convinced creativity thrives on openness and engagement and it doesn’t need to start with confidence, it can start with one shared conversation loaded with kindness.
Please don’t worry that returning to your creative impulses will expose rustiness, disappointment or judgement. Leave the doubt that the best ideas are behind us and come to At 6s & 7s Gallery where the welcome mat is out, the space is gentle and peers supportive.
We have a residential and a daily programme and each offer different kinds of support for artists reconnecting with their creativity.
Thursday April 2nd to Wednesday April 29th 2025. Once we are settled in the studio space it can be available at times to suit all our varied creative needs. Above all for Muse in the Gallery in April I think the atmosphere may matter even more than the structure itself. So, rest assured I will do my utmost to be supportive and have you feel unhurried while you work towards restoring your creative needs.
Warmly, Gerry Carew
"The time spent in quiet space at the 6s&7s gallery in Tipperary town has given me a beautiful opportunity to gather and be present to my fibre art work. Health issues had prevented progress in a project initiated in 2024. The time and space to spread, hang, reconnect and rework with it that Gerri Carew’s gallery has been invaluable. The musing environment has provided a re-turn and re-vision of the work, opening a portal and a way forward. This sensibility of the need for space outside of pressures or deadline for artists, simply allowing creative spirits to take a breath and flex their wings is one that will be made use of by many."
~ PG, April 2026
