Empowering Communities Through Creativity: “Art in Our Hands” Brings Heritage to Life

A dynamic new partnership project, Art in Our Hands, is making waves across Fermanagh, blending heritage, health, and creativity in a truly inspiring way. Spearheaded by Fermanagh County Museum at Enniskillen Castle and the Oak Healthy Living Centre in Lisnaskea, this initiative reimagines how museum collections can be experienced—by empowering people through hands-on, participatory art.

Supported by the Art Fund’s Reimagine Grant, Art in Our Hands is already connecting local communities with Fermanagh’s rich cultural heritage. Participants are engaging with treasured collections such as the William Scott Enniskillen Archive, the Johnny McKeagney Folklore Archive, the Pat Cassidy Corner House Collection, and artefacts on loan from the Drumclay Crannog.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, shared his enthusiasm:

“This project is a shining example of how heritage can be a powerful tool for healing, for connection and for creativity. By working together across sectors, we are making our history meaningful and accessible to everyone and, not least, to those who need it most.

I am proud to see our museum leading the way in such an innovative and compassionate initiative.”

The Oak Healthy Living Centre is engaging with groups from across the area who are rurally isolated, living with health conditions, or have experienced trauma. These include Lisnaskea Men’s Shed, the Bereavement and Trauma Support Group, Survivors to Those Lost to Suicide, and clients with early onset dementia.

Micheál Mowen, Manager of the Oak Healthy Living Centre, added:

“The ‘Art in Our Hands’ partnership is providing great opportunities to actively explore different aspects of our Fermanagh heritage. Having access to Fermanagh County Museum’s expertise and their unique archives is providing new insights for participants. Accomplished local artists are taking part and imparting new skills and techniques, while those taking part are drawing on their varied life experiences. It will be very exciting when this all comes together and is exhibited.”

Participants are working alongside talented local artists including Elaine Agnew, Kevin McHugh, Morag Donald, and John Lipton. Museum staff are enriching the programme with behind-the-scenes access, artefact handling, and guided tours of heritage sites such as the Lough Erne Pilgrim Way.

The project will culminate in a co-curated showcase exhibition at Enniskillen Castle in late 2026, followed by a final conference to share insights and celebrate the journey.