Prestigious Dublin exhibition for Claudia

A talented self-taught local artist has been selected to exhibit her work at a prestigious exhibition at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in Dublin next week.

Claudia Williams, who lives at Gortshane, Newport, and is originally from Limerick City, has been chosen as one of just nine artists from across Ireland to take part in this year’s Connecting Artists Programme, now in its fourth year.

The exhibition, which runs from Wednesday, July 16 to Saturday, July 19, at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), 123 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, celebrates the creativity of artists who are neurodivergent or have intellectual disabilities, providing them with professional development, mentorship, and national exposure for their artistic work.

creative inspiration

Claudia, who taught herself to be a creative artist, draws her creative inspiration from the world of horror.

“I think with art it’s important to conjure emotions and reactions from viewers, and for me, the art that does this best borders on the macabre,” she said.

“I usually work with canvas, pencils, acrylic paint and inking pens. Being part of the Connecting Artists programme has been fascinating — I feel like I have so much to learn, and it’s an amazing opportunity to meet fellow artists.” she added.

Claudia continues to develop her unique visual language, using bold imagery and expressive techniques to provoke and engage audiences. Her inclusion in the exhibition marks a major milestone in her artistic journey.

The Connecting Artists programme was developed by Connections Arts Centre, which is an award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise that supports people with intellectual disabilities and the neurodivergent community through inclusive arts and training initiatives.

supporting emerging artists

This structured 10-week programme supports emerging artists in developing their creative skills, building confidence, and gaining national recognition through exhibitions like this one at RCSI.

Speaking about this year’s programme, Lis Lien, Programme Manager at Connections Arts Centre, said: “This year, we were delighted to open the Connecting Artists programme to include neurodivergent artists as well as those with intellectual disabilities. The diversity of perspectives and creative voices has been truly inspiring. Claudia and her peers have worked with dedication over the past 10 weeks, and we’re so proud to see their art take centre stage at RCSI.”

The Connecting Artists 2025 Exhibition is free and open to the public (advance booking required). Visitors will be able to explore artwork, attend talks and live art demonstrations, and meet the artists.

Some original pieces and art cards, the work of the participants in the exhibition, will also be available for purchase.

Opening Times For the Public:

Wednesday, July 16:

3–5pm (Official Opening Day)

Thursday, July17:

11am–3pm (Live demo at 11.30am)

Friday, July18:

11am–3pm (Live demo at 11.30am)

Saturday, July 19:

11am–3pm