Sweet Home Sweet is a body of visual art developed by Jane Hayes with and for early years audiences (ages 0–6), commissioned by Sample-Studios, Cork. The work includes toddler-sized sculptural installations and 2D digital image pieces that offer an intimate and playful glimpse into the domestic play spaces and imaginative worlds of young children.
Rooted in research and developed in active dialogue with toddlers, the work embraces the unique ways very young children engage with art—physically, emotionally, and socially. Hayes advocates for children’s right to access high-quality artistic experiences and thoughtfully crafts environments that are both stimulating and comfortable for children and their caregivers.
Come on in…
Take off your coat and shoes if you like.
Take your time — relax, pause, look, and listen.
Lie down, sit, or have a little wander.
Chat or stay quiet — whatever feels right to you.
This exhibition is for you!
Where do you like to play at home?
Who do you play with?
What’s your favourite game?
What’s your favourite toy?
How do you feel when you’re playing at home?
Jane Hayes presents Sweet Home Sweet, a playful exhibition made especially with and for young children. Originally commissioned by Sample-Studios, Cork, the work invites little ones (and their grown-ups!) to explore the everyday magic of play at home.The exhibition includes cozy, toddler-sized sculptures shaped like playhouses, as well as colourful and imaginative digital print artworks. Together, they offer a playful peek into the spaces, stories, and feelings that make up a child’s home life.
Developed through creative conversations with toddlers, the artworks are designed to connect meaningfully with young audiences and welcome their unique ways of exploring, moving, and responding.
Jane’s practice in visual art for early years is proudly supported by The Arts Council and Cork City Council.
Jane Hayes is a visual artist from County Wexford, now based in Cork, with over a decade of experience creating art for early years audiences (ages 0–5). Her practice centres on listening to and responding to children’s voices through research-led, sensory-rich work. She has been commissioned by organisations including Baboró, the Hunt Museum, and the NCCA, and is a member of Sample-Studios, Cork. Jane’s work has toured widely in Ireland, supported by awards from the Arts Council and Cork City Council. She continues to explore innovative approaches to early years art through studio practice, collaboration, and national touring exhibitions.
Sweet Home Sweet is commissioned by Sample-Studios, Cork. The project is generously supported by The Arts Council and Cork City Council.
