Well what a fantastic start we have got off to here in Northern Ireland. For those of you who don't already know me, I'm Louise McLean, Regional Coordinator for Northern Ireland.(a willow sculptural artist with specialism 3D Design)

Although I am based in Portrush, Co Antrim, we will be working towards building upon the existing team involved with Speight of the Art as we spread out across the province.
To date myself and fellow artist Veron Duffy,who's specialisms include (Bog-wood carving, painting and basketry) have worked with a Coleraine based Primary School, Macosquin. Here during the month of November,we went in and helped the children(all 185 of them ) paint a canvas. These, when finished went on exhibition during December 08, at the Flowerfield Arts Centre in Portstewart.
As it was the first SP8 exhibition, we thought who better to come over to the official launch, but Oliver Speight himself! What a fantastic evening was had by all, every child was thrilled to be able to see his or her own work on display in the gallery, an overwhelming success!

During Oliver's visit to Northern Ireland, we had the opportunity to pay a visit to the newest Primary School in Northern Ireland, Carnalridge, based on the outskirts of Portrush. We discussed with the school the possibility of being able to facilitate an after schools programme within the school, aimed at the Year 7.
This has now been finalised, and the first of 6 workshops will begin during last week February 09.

The children of year 4 at this school, during Oliver's visit, presented him with a folio of lovely pictures, and when Oliver appeared on 'SKY NEWS' with Kay Burley the following day to do an interview, here didn't he bring the pictures along to share literally with the rest of the world who were tuned in and watching! Watch this space, we have a lot of talented kids out there . . .

I have just returned from a regional team meeting, I've met fantastic people involved at all levels, all with a passion for creativity and bringing this to our young people. We have lots of new and exciting plans for 2009, let us know if there is a project that you would like help with?

Keep watching for up and coming events...