I am writing in reference to the position Arts and Crafts Gallery curator posted on the FAS

website on 21/12/2009.

I have been working in the art sector for many years, this includes working in galleries, planning
curating and arranging exhibitions, advising the public on purchasing artwork, promoting up and
coming artists and managing the running of the gallery. Being a practising artist i have completed
many projects independently with art associations. For these organisations I have planned and
coordinated many events. From the experience of delivering workshops and art classes and being
involved in over thirty exhibitions, my knowledge of preparing and delivering classes/exhibitions is of a
distinguished quality.

The summer months of 2004 were spent in Create-A-Link art studio (Letterkenny). This studio was set
up by the North West Health Board for the members of the community who are recovering from a
mental illness. I collaborated with the members on a short film and many exhibitions while also
providing workshops in conjunction with the “Festival of Rights” for the European year of disability.
After completing my degree I joined Belfast Print workshop and Array studios and I am currently an
artist in residence at Create-A-Link art studio.

During my time working with the members of Create-A-Link art studio was of great
significance to me. Discussing contemporary concepts on mental health issues was of the up most
importance for the students. My role and artistic viewpoint helped encouraged the students with their
concepts and roles in society in the best manner possible. During the summer months of 2005 to
2008 I was employed in the Cristeph gallery (Letterkenny) and the Edward gallery
(Derry/Londonderry). My duties for this post involved the preparation and framing of artworks. I was
given the responsibility of the day to day running of the business while also opening and closing the
gallery.

Throughout my artistic career organisational skills are of vital importance to me. Bringing work
from the research stage to concept and finally exhibiting takes a lot of dedication and preparation plus
attention to detail. Deadlines require being attentive to the timescale as you must also prepare for
any unforeseen circumstances. With these experiences and skills I have gained throughout my
educational background and being a practising artist I feel I would have the abilities to curate and
organise exhibitions and control the day to day running of the business.

Kind Regards,

Ryan Mc Daid.