EXTENSIVE preparations are underway at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar for a new and entirely unique light sensation by visual artist Cathal McCarthy.

An adventure in light phenomena entitled Infinite Light, this project encompasses dual experiences, that of light box installation Rainbow in A Box, housed in a steel shipping container situated in Supervalu car park, and a dynamic walk-through spectacle in the Linenhall’s theatre space.

The fruition of years of research and development by McCarthy, this educational and experiential project takes place from Friday, December 1, to Saturday, December 9, and aims to create a mesmerising experience for people of all ages to enjoy, bringing light to the dark depths of Irish winter.

“We would like to thank our supporters who through their generosity have enabled us to issue free tickets to this exhibition. The Arts Council, Mayo County Council UPSTART, Supervalu Kavanagh Group and many more!

“We will have visitor days dedicated to children, to schools, to persons with disabilities, and late night opening hours to make this as accessible as possible for everyone in our community. We’d love all to wrap up warm, and join us for what is sure to be a most memorable experience,” enthused Deirdre Melvin, arts access officer at the Linenhall Arts Centre.

Guided by a team of artists and Mayo Artsquad, participants can create their own personal rainbow of colours and experiment with how light and colour combine to form new shades and hues. See into infinity, allowing your imagination to take hold by interacting with colour and light in unexplored ways, as part of this immersive and participatory experience.

Visual artist Cathal McCarthy is renowned for his iconic public art sculptures. He was recently commissioned by Mayo County Council to create All is Well, a public art installation for Tubber Hill, Westport, and is currently working on new art commissions for Dublin City, and Höchstadt – Castlebar’s long standing twin town in Germany.

MAYO ARTISTS SHOW

Continuing with the visual arts theme, and the launch of the bi-annual Mayo Artists Show exhibition which has now been lovingly unveiled on the walls and spaces of the Linenhall Gallery for the public to peruse.

Following the submission and selection process earlier this month, carefully curated by artist Ian Wieczorek, it features a cornucopia of work in all manner of media, by the talents of visual artists from across the length and breadth of our beautiful county.

The Mayo Artists Show runs until January 6.

CINEMA

For cinema fans there are two upcoming screenings to relish as part of the Linenhall’s Film Club – police drama The Night of the 12th on Tuesday, November 28, and romantic comedy Rye Lane on Tuesday, December 12.

BOOKING

Please note that advance booking is essential for Infinite Light. Further information on how to attend is available via https://www.thelinenhall.com/ or by contacting (094) 9023733.