The River Nanny: Water, Soil, & Sculpture

This workshop is part of the Take Me to the River project. Click here to find out more. 

Date: Sat 25 May 
Time: 9:30pm - 2pm 
Location: Staffordstown House, Co. Meath. Further details will be given following booking.

To acknowledge the UN International Day for Biological Diversity (May 22), which aims to increase recognition of the significant challenges human activities pose to biological diversity, Staffordstown house invites you to follow the River Nanny as it runs through the local surrounding farmland. Take a sensory ‘art walk’ exploring the relationship of watercourse, soil and agriculture.

Artist and resident Penelope Lacey will lead participants on a river walk with Fionnuala McCabe of Inland Fisheries Ireland; passing through fields, crossing the river, pausing to absorb and discuss the rich biodiversity that surrounds and within the river. Landowner and farmer Michael Monaghan will join the walking workshop to bring a unique perspective and understanding of a sustainable cohabitation of nature and agriculture, observing the conditions that allow both to thrive. 

Pausing at the banks of the river, touch and gather natural clay and materials, abundant at this time of year. Under Penelope’s artistic guidance, participants will be encouraged to explore texture, form and colour producing creative responses to the land and water. 

Observations and clay creations made by participants will be collected for inclusion in the 'Creative Catchment Map' and exhibited at Swift Cultural Centre, Trim in October.

This workshop is for over 16’s only and includes walking over rough, uneven wet terrain. Participants will receive appropriate details before attending. If you have any questions, please contact Deirdre at deirdre.rogers@solsticeartscentre.ie