NCAD welcomes artists young and old at part-timer open day 

NCAD opened their doors to mature students on the last Saturday in February for its Continuing Education in Art and Design (CEAD) open day. 

CEAD offers evening part-time courses in a wide range of disciplines for mature students aged 21 and over. 

The open day took place in the Harry Clarke Building on Thomas Street and gave attendees the chance to engage with students and faculty. 

Emer Marron, admissions support officer for CEAD, said the available courses provide a “flexible and accessible” route into the creative world for an “older cohort”. 

“They can be to upskill or refresh skill – or complete beginners.” 

She continued: “You can start as a beginner and over time work your way through to the final year of our full-time Fine Art degree.” 

Marron emphasised the diverse range of disciplines available, from printmaking and embroidery, to ceramics, textiles, and painting. 

She encourages anyone who is “art curious” to take the leap: “People are often fearful and say, ‘I’m not good enough to be in a college of art’.” 

“I would tell them to come and give it a go – suck it and see.” 

Marron believes age should not be a barrier to those interested in art: “We have people aged 16 and we’ve had someone at the age of 95.” 

A 2021 Higher Education Authority study found that mature student enrollment has declined since its peak in 2010/11, with financial costs cited as the biggest barrier. 

However, Marron asserted that NCAD’s prices compare “very favourably” with similar courses.