Welcome to the MCAC Autumn08/Winter09 Programme (September08 – January09), a series of creative events and activities throughout the entire building. With this brochure MCAC continues our new programmatic and organisational structure—the pod. The idea behind this approach is to create a holistic approach in presenting creative experiences—combining the process of the visual, verbal, multimedia and educational arts and taking inspiration from a broad concept. In other words, the auxiliary events will surround the exhibition. In the case of this Season’s programming the ‘pods’ are about celebrating and highlighting investigations investigations into digital art, public sculpture and artwork inspired by nature.

Pod One looks at 'Infinite Mass', a new installation by Northern-Ireland based artist Gwen Stevenson whose work incorporates sound and installation/Sculpture. The pod also includes the final leg of a five-stop tour of Shane Cullen's 'Durer and the Gallowglass'. The exhibitions are also the inspiration for two Verbal events, including a Jazz Night with David Lyttle and a symposium on public art.

Pod Two looks at the roles of nature, its influence and inspiration within contemporary practice. MCAC will present photographs by Anne Burke which were commissioned by South Lough Neagh Regeneration Association and host a series of Organic Christmas art workshops inspired by the show. The Verbal events include a reading by local writer Pascal Downing. 

Our taglines ‘Altering Perceptions’ and ‘Developing Creativity’ are prevalent throughout this Season’s series of exhibitions, lectures, tours, classes and magical workshops. Children of all ages can join one of our many classes to gain creative skills. Kids and adults alike can check out our Specialty Pod classes where you may find something exciting and new. These courses are inspired by the current exhibitions. Or you can sign up for one of MCAC’s Classics, or courses which will run each season, such as Creative Writing, Watercolours, Photoshop/Digital Imaging, Art4Tots and Life Drawing.

If Family creative fun is what you’re after you may participate in the Free Open Art Days or join in our Festival Days! There are also adult and childrens’ holiday classes. However you choose to be creative, MCAC has something for everyone! Please join us in creative fun!

Megan Johnston/ MCAC Arts Director