The People Behind Leitrim School of Art
Leitrim School of Art was founded by Denise and Michael Corbett with a shared belief that creativity should be accessible to everyone.
Together, they have created more than an art school. They have built a welcoming creative community and a purpose-built studio where people of all ages and abilities can learn new skills, express themselves, grow in confidence and experience the joy of making.
Denise Corbett
Denise is an award-winning artist, arts educator and creative facilitator with over 25 years’ experience inspiring people through art.
As a registered teacher with the Teaching Council, Denise has dedicated her career to making creativity welcoming, accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Her work has helped children, teenagers and adults discover their artistic potential, build confidence and, for many, continue their creative journey into further education, employment and lifelong artistic practice.
Her commitment to making the arts accessible extends far beyond the studio. Denise is a trained Teacher Artist Partnership (TAP) artist and delivers creative projects in schools through initiatives including BLAST. She has also worked extensively with people of all ages and abilities, including those with additional support needs, designing creative experiences that are flexible, inclusive and centred on the individual.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to arts participation and creative inclusion, Denise was honoured with the Leitrim Arts Award 2025.
Michael Corbett
Michael brings decades of experience from the creative industries to Leitrim School of Art.
For more than 30 years he has worked in lighting design, manufacturing and creative business development, holding senior roles in several successful companies. His experience in design, project management and organisational development helps ensure that Leitrim School of Art continues to grow as a vibrant and sustainable creative resource for the community.
Working behind the scenes, Michael supports the development of new programmes, partnerships and opportunities that enable more people to discover the benefits of creativity.
Our Tutors
Alongside Denise and Michael is a team of experienced artists, makers and creative practitioners who share a common belief: that learning should be encouraging, enjoyable and accessible.
Every tutor brings professional expertise together with a friendly, supportive approach that helps people feel relaxed, inspired and confident, whether they’re attending their first class or developing existing skills.
Together, they make Leitrim School of Art what it has become today—a welcoming creative home for people from across County Leitrim and beyond.