Artists wanted for Coleraine Market Yard project

Photographers, painters, sculptors, writers and poets are all welcome. They will have the opportunity to observe and record a major heritage development and take part in a historic exhibition.

The Market Yard was built in Coleraine in 1829 to take the thriving agricultural trade out of the town centre. For 150 years it was a commercial hub. It was also a meeting place where people met to trade stories and ideas.

The site, just off New Market Street, has been closed off and derelict for some time, but is about to undergo a rebirth. Conservation work on the structures will commence shortly to make the Yard accessible.

Council are currently awaiting a decision on major funding to build a new museum and other facilities within the soon to be restored site. The conservation works programme will be making a technical record.

However Causeway Museum Service would love to see how artists would observe and portray any aspect of the project before the conservation works commences. All amateur artists are invited to join a group which will have unique access to the Yard. All work produced will be eligible for selection for a major exhibition.

An inaugural meeting will take place at Coleraine Town Hall Council Chamber on Thursday, May 12 at 7.30pm . This will provide a chance to learn the background to the project and discuss ideas for the programme.

Please get in touch with John Hamilton if you are interested in the project, even if you cannot attend the meeting - his number is 7034 7235, and the e-mail address is [email protected]