Virtually There is a long-term virtual-artist-in-residence project run by Kids’ Own and funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. This unique project uses remote technology to link artists in their studios with children in the classroom. Currently there are six artists working in six Northern Irish schools, and the work is being documented on an ongoing basis on our online journals.
Virtual Engagement
On an ongoing basis Kids' Own, in collaboration with the artists participating on the project, questions and interrogates the value of this work. Currently we are putting together a publication that will share the processes of this work and will share some of the core findings in terms of the importance and impact that this project has for participating artists, teachers and children.
The nature of virtual engagement is very unique and requires a very focused dialogic exchange between artists and children; as well as a strong collaboration between artist and teacher. However, once a working methodology has been established, the virtual engagement provides an exciting shared space where work can be created and presented. This live interactive space becomes an art work in and of itself.
The artists participating in the 2012-13 phase are: Ann Henderson, Ann Donnelly, Sharon Kelly, Fionnuala Conway, Joe Coveney, Andrew Livingstone.
In 2012, we also piloted the project south of the border for the first time, in partnership with South Dublin County Arts Office. Artist Maree Hensey worked with teachers and children in St Thomas Primary School, Jobstown, Tallaght.
Read more about the evaluation of our 2011-12 phase of the project HERE:
Kids' Own gratefully acknowledges the Arts Council of Northern Ireland for its continued support of this project.
