22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
New creative hub to be a lifeline for Wexford arts community – ‘It's about creating a welcoming space for everyone'
Set up by Czech-born artist and photographer Kristyna Simkova, Y21 Studios is a privately managed space designed to inspire creativity, connection, and integration in the local community.
The studio offers a dedicated hire space for art classes, workshops, creative meet-ups, and children's parties, and is open to artists, educators, and community groups of all backgrounds.
Joining Kristyna is Conor Gibson, a rising star of the Irish street art scene, who brings a wealth of experience working with local groups, young people, and fellow creatives. His involvement marks an exciting chapter in Enniscorthy's growing arts culture.
Y21 Studios also houses its own 'Body & Soul' Studios — a welcoming space for pilates, yoga, and meditation classes, promoting balance, well-being, and positive mental health.
The studio is based at Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, beside the IFA Centre.
In addition, the newly relocated Creative Grounds Café & Farm Shop will be based at Y21 Studios, serving up Wexford roasted coffee, handmade treats, and local produce, along with the live music and food events that have made the café a much-loved part of Enniscorthy's cultural life.
Kristyna explained that they hoped that the hub will provide a safe and inspiring place for generations of artists to come.
'Y21 Studios is about more than just art — it's about building community, encouraging creativity, and creating a welcoming space for everyone, no matter where they're from. We believe integration happens naturally when people come together through shared experiences, and that's what this space is all about.'
Y21 Studios will be open year-round for classes, private hires, events, and community-led programming.
The official grand opening will take place on Saturday, May 24 from 12 p.m. and the public is warmly invited to attend.
