Smidiríní i Sligeach! Glass Micro-Sculpture Workshop

The Model in Sligo hosts an Irish-language glass micro-sculpture workshop, Smidiríní i Sligeach!, led by artist Karen Ní Dhomhnalláin on Saturday 8 August 2026. Organised by Aerach Aiteach Gaelach, an Irish-language network, the session runs entirely through Irish and teaches the basics of small-scale glass sculpture, from cutting and grinding to soldering and polishing. No previous art experience or fluency is required to take part, only an interest in working with your hands and picking up some Irish along the way.

What to expect

Karen Ní Dhomhnalláin guides participants through the fundamentals of glasswork over two and a half hours, covering cutting, breaking, grinding, soldering, gluing and polishing window glass into small sculptural pieces. The emphasis is on simplicity and enjoyment rather than technical perfection, so beginners are as welcome as anyone with existing craft experience. Participants are asked to bring their own small found objects, fabric, paper or hardware to incorporate into their piece alongside the glass provided by the organisers. Instruction and conversation run through Irish, making it as much a language event as an art one. Places are limited, so early booking is advised.

Getting there

The Model is on The Mall in Sligo town centre, a short walk from the bus and rail station and from on-street parking nearby.

While you’re in Sligo

The workshop is an easy stop while spending a day in Sligo town, close to the shops and cafes around the town centre. There is more to explore across Co. Sligo for anyone making a weekend of it.

Good to know

• Date and time: Saturday 8 August 2026, 2pm to 4:30pm
• Venue: The Model, The Mall, Sligo
• Language: through Irish (Gaeilge)
• Bring: small found objects, fabric or paper to incorporate into your piece
• Organiser: Aerach Aiteach Gaelach