First Impressions

First Impressions is a landmark solo exhibition by Cork-based visual artist Jane Hayes, created especially for early years audiences. Bringing together a major body of work developed over several years, the exhibition invites young children and their families into a visually rich and imaginative world that reflects how young children encounter art: physically, playfully, and with deep curiosity.

Featuring a diverse range of original works—including sculpture scaled to toddler-height, photographic pieces, hand-tufted textiles, and animation underscored by an evocative soundscape—First Impressions is a celebration of visual art made with and for the youngest viewers. Technically accomplished and emotionally attuned, the exhibition honours the intelligence, agency, and sensory ways in which young children experience the world.

This is Hayes’s most ambitious presentation to date, offering a rare opportunity to experience an artist’s sustained, innovative engagement with early childhood through contemporary visual art.

Artist Talk
Mon 13 October 16.00-17.00
Adults, all ages welcome
Free, booking advised
MORE INFO

Schools Tours
Weekday exhibition tours available, see HERE for more info and booking

First Impressions is generously supported by the Arts Council, Cork City Council, and Sample-Studios

Jane Hayes is a Cork-based visual artist creating new and innovative work for early years audiences. Her multi-award-winning practice is grounded in visual art, shaped by her experience as a mother of three young boys, and rooted in the real and imagined worlds of early childhood. Hayes produces technically accomplished, conceptually rich work that reflects the physical, playful ways young children engage with art.

Recent projects include Sweet Home Sweet (2023) and First Impressions (2024), both touring nationally. Hayes is a member of Sample-Studios and a Baboró Associate Artist. Her practice is supported by The Arts Council and Cork City Council.

Image Credit: Davi Matheson