MEET THE FOUNDER

CLARE MURRAY

How Happy Days Arts Began 

I founded Happy Days Arts Community Art Company at Conway Mill after working as a community artist in Northern Ireland for over 20 years. Throughout that time, I saw first-hand how many people struggled to access creative spaces where they could learn, express themselves and connect with others — especially those living with mental health challenges, neurodivergence or learning disabilities. Too often, community arts focused on output rather than wellbeing, leaving many people excluded simply for learning or communicating differently.

In 2014, my daughter was born with Coffin-Siris Syndrome, a rare genetic condition. This experience opened my eyes even further to the lack of opportunities for children and adults with learning disabilities or additional physical and mental health needs. I saw how quickly isolation can happen, and how few community spaces are designed with accessibility, patience or neurodiversity in mind. That became the turning point. I wanted to build a space that welcomed everyone — a space where creativity could support confidence, communication and wellbeing, rather than becoming another barrier. That vision became Happy Days Arts Community Interest Company.

Today, we may be a small organisation, but we are already making meaningful impact. We are delivering a 6-week creative programme with Cliftonville Youth focused on End Violence Against Women and Girls, and a 20-week resilience-building project with Mayfield Youth in a community with reduced resources. We have also launched our inclusive Saturday Study Hub supporting SEAG and GCSE learners, while offering free community arts classes and affordable space for local groups including Irish dancing and cultural activities. These projects are proof that creative opportunity, when accessible, can strengthen confidence, community and belonging.

Looking ahead, our goal is to secure funding that expands social inclusion, celebrates diversity and provides free weekly creative workshops for adults and children with learning disabilities. We believe everyone deserves a space to create, connect and belong — and we are committed to making that a reality for Belfast and beyond