KRAZY KALEIDOSCOPES

Have you ever been hypnotised by a colourful and enchanting Kaleidoscope? This is an opportunity to observe outstanding optical occurrences and see things a bit differently! Make you own kaleidoscope while learning about the science of reflected light and how our eyes see colour. Using natural light, mirrors and lots of coloured objects (or even the world around you), you can create stunning, symmetrical patterns that nobody can predict! No two patterns will ever be the same – let the endlessly rotating geometric shapes inspire you to tell a story, design your own unique patterns and be amazed at the magical power of light.

Selene Murphy is a multi-disciplinary artist, designer and facilitator. She creates work through Street Theatre, Spectacle, STEAM and Architecture. With a socially-engaged practice, she engages with young people and communities through participatory workshops. Together they co-create parades, installations, performances and events. Inclusion, diversity and collective expression are common threads that underpin these collaborations.

Since 2023, Selene has been Creative Director for Carlow Arts Festival’s Carnival Parade, designing and delivering Spectacle Arts workshops with school, youth and outreach groups, before taking to the streets as part of the festival programme. She has also worked with First Fortnight Festival, Circus 250, Dublin City Libraries, VISUAL Carlow, Creative Places Edenderry, Birr Theatre and Arts Centre and Laois Arts Office to deliver street theatre performances and community events.

Alongside her Street Theatre & Spectacle work, she explores the natural sciences through Litmus Arts, a specific programme of STEAM arts performances and workshops, inspired by the intersection of science, art, and nature. These are interactive and hands-on, incorporating crafts and activities designed to embed the learning and ignite the imagination. Supported by her background in Architecture, Selene has run a selection of workshops and programmes for children and teens. She has designed and produced activity workbooks and architectural treasure hunts for Cruinniu na nOg as well as hosting series of introductory workshops for children with CTYI at Dublin City University and engages with TY groups through the Architects in Schools programme run by the Irish Architecture Foundation.

She aims to remain flexible in her approach to working with people of all ages, and accepting of their needs and interests. Focusing on the process ensures that they will have rich learning experiences and taking the time to explore materials and methods offers the opportunity to discover unexpected and delightful things.