Launched on Culture night 2013, Engage is an artist led, voluntary initiative that aims to promote Longford as a hub for contemporary visual art . Our fundamental objective is to procure permanent dedicated visual arts infrastructure in Longford, to connect , support and build the capacity of artists by providing workspace and exhibition opportunities for graduate , emerging and established artist
s. Having secured the temporary use of the former Providers shop on Main St. Longford ,Engage members refurbished the first floor as a gallery space and curated a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events from local , national and inter-national artists across a diverse range of disiplines. The scale of the space ,allowed great scope for exhibiting a broad range of work including installations ,sculpture ,film ,soundscapes and painting . Links were established with educational institutes by hosting end of year shows and educational events , school visits , artists talks, workshops and projects with transition year and fetac students. The building was purchased by Longford County Council in 2017 with the gallery element forming part of the blueprint for a proposed new digital , innovation and creative hub at the site. In 2018 Engage acquired property from Longford Co.Co. and following renovation launched Garveys Yard Artist studios in Feb 2019 . The project provides opportunities for artists to work and develope their practice in Longford . The studios can facilitate a broad mix of artists and are a valuable asset to the local arts scene ,adding to the growing creative vibrancy of Longford. This initiative presents possibilities for net-working and collaborative projects with existing and new communities ,local schools, and interest groups.
