Artworks 2026: Hold This

Hold This is the 2026 edition of Artworks, the annual open call exhibition realised by VISUAL with Carlow Arts Festival.

Hold This is drawn from submissions from Irish and international artists. They were invited to consider ideas of exchange: of skills, ideas and knowledge, and how analogue, interpersonal exchanges overlap, interact and conflict with technology. What has emerged is a series of works that think about these things historically and contemporaneously, speculatively and practically.

The exhibition explores the challenges for art-making, personal connection and the social contract in the face of fragmentation and digitisation. Artworks look to the past, address the present and imagine the future, and ask how we can continue to seek alternatives, often using the very same tools.

In the centre of the Link Gallery, VISUAL’s workshop tables are positioned for the duration of the exhibition. These are usable on a drop-in basis by visitors and will host workshops, meetings and exchanges throughout the summer. If you would like to book this space for free to use for your group, please contact Clare Breen at learning@visualcarlow.ie


The launch for Artworks 2026 will take place on Thursday 28th May, 6pm
Guided tour: Fri 29 May, 1pm