Interface Inagh

Interface was registered as a not-for-profit voluntary organisation in February 2016. Our mission is to provide catalysing opportunities for artists in residence to engage with other international artists and local people through a unique platform with outstanding natural beauty that explores the intersections between scientific research and art. The studio is located in premises shared with the Inagh Valley Trust, which drives a number of innovative scientific research projects in the Inagh Valley. Interface offers artists an opportunity to engage with a unique environment and to be inspired by the exciting research taking place in a spectacular landscape. The facility was built as a salmon hatchery in the late 1980s. Scott Tallon Walker architects were commissioned by Carrolls cigarette company to design the biggest, most advanced salmon hatchery in the world. The company ran a fully automated, computer-controlled hatchery and supplied offshore salmon farmers with smolt via helicopter. The business ultimately failed because the factory was built too high above the adjacent lake, and the cost of recirculating the water was too heavy. The facility was bought by the current owners in 2007 with a view to developing a centre of scientific research and development. Residencies take place over periods of between two and six weeks. The resident artist has the use of a 14.4 m2 private space as well as access to 135 m2 shared studio space. The place is equipped with artificial lighting, heat and some basic tools.