The refurbished Custom House Studios at Westport Quay will be formally opened by Dr Martin Mansergh TD. Minister of State with responsibility for Arts, and the OPW, on Saturday April 4 at 2pm. This event is open to the public and all interested are invited to attend.
Custom House Studios was established at the Quay in Westport through a partnership involving the artists’ group in Westport, Westport Urban District Council, Mayo County Council, the Department of Arts, and the whole Westport community. The refurbishment of the building, and the new extension to the rear of the existing facility provides additional exhibition space and improved office space, as well as internal access between the gallery and studios. Originally opened in 2002 it now houses seven studios, a printmaking workshop and a gallery space, providing studio and exhibition space for artists, as well as access for the local community and visitors to artistic events. These improved facilities, the new extension, and renovation works have been made possible through funding from the Social and Community Facilities Capital Scheme 2006, the Department of the Environment, Mayo County Council social and economic fund, as proposed by Cll Margaret Adams, and by Mayo County Council.
To coincide with the official opening Dr Mansergh will open an exhibition of new work by Breda Burns, 360? of the Reek. Breda Burns who was born and continues to live in Westport is one of the founding members of the artists group that initiated the development of the Custom House project. She remains active as a director on the board and a member of the management committee.
