Join Herbalist Sharon Walsh and Artist Cathal McCarthy for a special guided biodiversity walk on Saturday 13 June at 12 noon, in Claregalway. The walk will explore the flora, fauna and native plant life that are inspiring the sculpture Unfurl a new sculpture that has been commissioned for Claregalway. The artwork will feature stainless steel ribbons of text which will reflect the rich heritage of Claregalway and also inspiration from the local community, history and archaeology. It will include some new lyrics created by students from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir via song writing workshops with The Saw Doctors’ Leo Moran and songwriter Padraig Stevens.
The walk will trace the route of the Clare river, roadside verges, fields and surroundings of the village. Your guide Sharon Walsh will highlight the grasses, wildflowers and hedgerow species that are native to the locale. Participants will learn how to use herbs for tea making and how biodiversity is being celebrated in the creation of this new permanent cultural landmark. Following the walk, the group will return to the SMA centre for herbal tea and a short presentation on the development of the sculpture by visual artist Cathal McCarthy
The Unfurl sculpture aims to address unique heritage of Claregalway, the castle and friary ruins, the Nine Arch Bridge, place-names, and the musical spirit of the song The N17 itself. "The sculpture aims to be like a new song for Claregalway, created with input from local groups via arts participation and engagement " McCarthy said. "The Biodiversity walk is a chance to see the vibrant and indigenous plants and places that will live on in the work for the future”.
The new sculpture by Artist Cathal McCarthy is a Galway County Arts Office and OPW Commission with contributions from students of Coláiste Bhaile Chláir and local community groups and managed by Rina Whyte, Public Art Curator.
“Unfurl is a wonderful example of how public art can emerge from a deep engagement with place, people and biodiversity” said Sharon O’Grady, Galway County Arts Officer. “This project brings together artists, local knowledge, schools and community voices to create something that is both meaningful and lasting. The guided walk offers a unique opportunity for people to see first-hand how the natural environment and local stories are shaping this important new cultural landmark for Claregalway”.
To register for this event see: Biodiversity Walk | Stone Walls and the Grass is Green - Public Art Project – Fill out form
For any further information please email: publicart@galwaycoco.ie