5 September – 3 October 2026
Works by major international artists, leading Donegal artists and even a six-legged sheep will come together at the Regional Cultural Centre this September for Open Collection: An Exhibition in the Making – a new participatory exhibition bringing artworks and objects from public collections across Donegal into the gallery and inviting visitors to become part of the exhibition themselves.
Visitors are invited to look at the works, respond creatively and make something of their own using drawing and art materials provided in the gallery. Their creations will then be added to the gallery walls, allowing the exhibition to grow and change throughout its run as more people take part.
The exhibition brings together a diverse selection of artworks and objects, spanning internationally recognised artists, established Donegal artists and works with strong connections to the county. Pieces by Jeff Koons and Victor Vasarely will sit among the works drawn from Donegal’s public collections, bringing together work that varies widely in style, subject and approach.
The exhibition also features work by Cathal McGinley, Christy Keeney, Helena Gorey, Jeff Koons, Jill Quigley, Laura Buchanan, Liz Doyle, Marie Barrett, Mhairi Sutherland, Peadar McDaid, Seán Hillen, Victor Vasarely, Caitlín Ní Ghallachóir and Kevin McGee.
Siobhan O’Connor, RCC General Manager and exhibition curator, said:
“These collections belong to the people of Donegal, and we want people to feel that this is their gallery too. Open Collection is an invitation to come in, spend time with the artworks and objects, decide what you think about them and respond in your own way.
“There is no right or wrong way to engage with art. You don’t need any previous knowledge or experience – we’ll provide the materials, and what you create will become part of the exhibition. As more people take part, the gallery will grow and change, becoming alive with different ideas, perspectives and creativity.”
To mark the opening, the RCC will host a free Opening Art Party on Saturday 5 September, from 2–4pm. The family-friendly event invites visitors of all ages to explore the exhibition, get creative and begin filling the gallery walls with their own artworks.
Open Collection: An Exhibition in the Making runs at the Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny, from 5 September to 3 October 2026. Admission is free and all are welcome.
The exhibition is curated by Siobhan O’Connor and presented with support from Donegal County Museum and Glebe House and Gallery (OPW).
For further information, visit regionalculturalcentre.com.
