Tower Museum launches exciting September arts programme
8 September 2026
People are being encouraged to take part in a packed programme of free creative activities this September as part of the Tower Museum's popular Art on Your Doorstep initiative.
Residents across Derry and Strabane are being encouraged to take part in a packed programme of free creative activities this September as the Tower Museum's popular Art on Your Doorstep initiative enters its final month.
The programme, which has brought art, creativity and cultural engagement directly into communities across the district, will conclude at the end of September with a series of family-friendly workshops, guided walks and hands-on creative experiences inspired by world-renowned artworks.
The programme begins with 'Art, Nature and Community' at the scenic Acorn Farm in St Columb’s Park, on Saturday 12 September, where families can explore drawing and mono-printing techniques using seasonal produce, flowers and natural materials gathered from the surrounding environment. Led by local artist Sinéad Smyth, the workshop draws inspiration from celebrated works by artists including Paul Gauguin, Caravaggio and Hans Holbein the Younger.
As part of Culture Night, participants are invited to join a special Guided Walk & Draw event on Friday September 18th, travelling from the Tower Museum to Acorn Farm. Combining mindful walking, observation and creativity, the event will encourage participants to experience the city through fresh eyes while taking part in simple drawing exercises along the route.
Families can then enjoy a Creative Drop-In Session at Strabane Library on Saturday 19 September, where children and adults alike can create colourful textured rhino artworks inspired by Pietro Longhi's Exhibition of a Rhinoceros at Venice.
The programme continues in Newtownstewart on Saturday September 26th, with 'Reflections of Now and Then', a family workshop inviting participants to explore the town, the Strule River and the historic surroundings of Newtownstewart through drawing, observation and creative expression.
The final event takes place at Castle Park, Castlederg, on Sunday September 27th. 'Beneath an Open Sky' will see families explore colour, light and landscape through outdoor painting activities inspired by the works of Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Vincent van Gogh.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Grace Úi Niallais, encouraged people to make the most of the remaining opportunities to get involved.
"The Art on Your Doorstep programme has been a wonderful way of bringing creativity and culture directly into communities across our district, making art accessible, engaging and enjoyable for people of all ages,” she said.
"These final events offer fantastic opportunities for families, friends and individuals to come together, explore their creativity and discover inspiration in the world around them. I would encourage everyone to take advantage of these free events before the programme comes to a close and help celebrate the positive impact it has had in communities throughout Derry and Strabane."
All events are free to attend, with some workshops recommending advance booking. Participants are advised to check individual event details regarding meeting locations, clothing and booking requirements.
For further information or to book a place where required, contact the Tower Museum by email at [email protected] or call 028 7137 2411.