Anonymous Art Sale to honour a great legacy

Custom House Studios + Gallery is inviting the people of Westport and beyond to come together for a special Anonymous Art Sale in memory of Margaret Adams, former chairperson of Custom House Studios and a passionate advocate for the arts and her community.

The fundraiser will take place at Custom House Studios + Gallery on Thursday, October 22, from 7pm to 10pm, with all proceeds going to Mayo Hospice, in recognition of the exceptional care and support Margaret and her family received.

This memorial fundraiser has been driven by Margaret’s inspirational impact and her unwavering dedication to her community. Margaret was first elected to Westport Urban District Council in 1974, which later became Westport Town Council and until she chose to retire forty years later, she never lost an election. She was elected as the first female chairperson of the Urban Council in 1983 and was re-elected to that role on three other occasions. She was also elected to Mayo County Council in 1998, which gave her a wider political remit to include the problems and concerns of her constituents in rural areas.

Margaret was defined by her profound commitment and relentless work in her community. During her forty years in politics, she availed of every opportunity to advocate for the betterment of Westport town and its environs. She undoubtedly channeled her dedication to the community into a living expression of the Mayo Hospice mantra 'Every Moment Matters', and she was a constant source of support and encouragement to all who knew her. There was no political divide for Margaret when she was approached to assist with personal, family or group-related problems.

Margaret took great pride in her tenure as chairperson of Custom House Studios and Gallery, which spanned 23 years until her passing in February 2025. She was never merely a symbolic figurehead, but a true leader who commanded immense influence throughout her tenure. Margaret realised her dream of refurbishing the historic landmark building, which was built in 1820 to manage trade and shipping imports at Westport Quay. She ensured that it retained its façade while becoming a modern-day resource for emerging and established artists, where creativity and imagination are nurtured and the public is free to visit and enjoy its exhibitions.

On the night of the sale, every artwork will be priced at €50. Visitors choose their artwork without knowing who created it. Once purchased, the identity of the artist is revealed, and the artwork can be taken home. 100% of the proceeds from the sale will go to Mayo Hospice, helping support specialist hospice care for families throughout Mayo.

Custom House Studios + Gallery welcomes artists, makers, families, friends and the wider community to take part in this special evening of art, community and remembrance.