The GAFF Limerick presents Paint Punch 2025, an exhibition showcasing art work, from youth centres in Limerick and Clare, created through a novel artistic approach that blends boxing with Painting.
Paint Punch was developed by artist Frank McCarthy, who was inspired by the physical movements of young boys in Abbeyfeale as they shadow-boxed their way through their day. Since 2023, Frank has worked closely with Harry Bradshaw and a wider group of artists to bring this unique art experience to youth clubs, schools and community locations.
The GAFF’s 2025 exhibition of works was created by young people in Southill Hub, West End Youth Centre, Limerick Youth Service in Nicholas St., Clare Youth Service, Shannon and with Brothers of Charity Streetwise group in Ennis. In Limerick and Clare, the project was delivered in collaboration with the Local Creative Youth Partnership at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board and supported by Rethink Ireland through its Impact for Munster fund. Paint Punch was also delivered in Cork, Kerry, Waterford and Tipperary with additional support Local Creative Youth Partnerships in Kerry, Cork and Tipperary ETBs.
The exhibition at The GAFF is one of many taking place over the coming winter season with Paint Punch work also being exhibited in a very prestigious event in the Västernorrland Museum in Harnosand, Sweden in mid-December as well as in St. John’s Art Centre in Listowel early in 2026, presented by Kerry Local Creative Youth Partnership. There is also work currently on show at the West End Youth Centre in Weston.
We encourage school and youth groups to come to see the work and, if our opening times do not suit, we can arrange additional opening times for groups. Following the official opening on December 16th, the exhibition will run December 17th, 18th and 19th, from 12 noon to 4pm and all are welcome.
