Invited by the Learn and Explore Team, curator and historian Matt Ryan has devised a series of discussion-based workshops centred around artworks in Crawford Art Gallery’s collection. Earlier this year we concluded the first round of sessions, with more set to begin in November.

The sessions are run in conjunction with existing art classes led by art teacher at the prison Daniel Sexton. A combination of art history and art appreciation, the sessions are being used to inform and inspire work in the class by exploring the collection and exhibitions showcased at the gallery. Bigger questions such as the function of a gallery and practical exercises in curation are also touched upon.

“By bringing a piece of the Crawford Art Gallery into our prison walls, we aim to bridge the gap between the art world and our incarcerated individuals, fostering a sense of connection, inspiration, and cultural enrichment.” – Daniel Sexton, Art Teacher at Cork Prison.

Image courtesy of Irish Museums Association

Earlier this year, Matt and Daniel presented the programme at the Irish Museums Association’s 2025 Education and Outreach (Ed+O) Forum, and received fantastic feedback from participants, with one commenting that the programme ‘really thought outside the box and broadened conceptions of what education and outreach work looks like".

For any enquiries about the Beyond the Frame Programme, please contact:

Chloé Griffin
LearnAndExplore@crawfordartgallery.ie
021 - 490 7862