23 artists
20+ events
A huge community art project and the return of the May Sunday festival
We’ve been busy.
Although, it is quality, not quantity, that matters to us.
As we head into year two we are looking back at how our programmes have shaped up. I think it’s only natural to be proud of our successes. We’re already seeing the return of artists for a second residency. We’re making long-term connections with East Cork artists. We’ve begun to build connections with local groups like the Monday Club, History Group, Scouts, Kyle National School, and Foroige.
When we set out, the artist’s residency was the sure thing – the familiar. I’ve been on residencies, I’ve worked in the arts my whole career. I understand the value of time and space to work, undistracted and in an inspiring atmosphere. The challenge was foreseeing the myriad needs of artists across disciplines, making a large old house feel cosy, getting the word out.
What came as a surprise was the depth of engagement we achieved with the local community in year one. It was the unknown for us – how would Killeagh respond? Would they understand what we’re doing here? Would there be a desire to get involved? The answer has been a resounding yes, so much so that community programming is on par with the residency in the hierarchy of our priorities.
We’re eager to keep growing as we find ways to better support the artists who stay with us, and the locals who want to learn about, see, and create art. As we move into year two, we are reflecting on our values, reviewing our business plan, and dreaming big for the future. I’ll write more about that soon.
Meanwhile, we’d like to invite everyone to help us celebrate our first year with an Anniversary Fête on Sunday July 1st from 2pm – 6pm. (free)
2-6: Art Exhibition featuring photographer and former artist-in-residence Aissa Lopez & Killeagh-based painter Sinéad Ní Chionaola.
Aissa Lopez will exhibit Paper Ghosts, A phenomenology of place, which uses Kodak Brownie box cameras to create direct positive, paper negatives and finished contact prints on fibre paper.
A Youghal native, Aissa was in residence at Greywood last August, working on a related photography project exploring domestic spaces and the uncanny. Perhaps you saw her work during the open studio?
Sinéad Ní Chionaola is a contemporary Irish landscape artist who uses her experiences of Glenbower Woods and the surrounding ancient lands of her hometown in East Cork to communicate a love of place. She works in series of paintings, and the painting process transforms into its own story – using drips, texture and form. You may be familiar with two of her large paintings hanging in our library, generously on loan to Greywood Arts for the past year.
2-4: Mural Painting & Ice Cream Social for Families
We will paint a mural on the garden wall at Greywood, using the Ogham alphabet to write Greywood Arts’ basic prinicpal: CREATE with these ancient Celtic symbols. In case of rain, we will work on a large roll of paper inside. Either way, be ready to get messy!
A special thanks to Martha Doyle for helping us plan out the Ogham alaphbet.
4-6: Short fiction & essay reading by E.R. Murray followed by music & drinks in the library.
E. R. Murray writes novels for children and young adults and short fiction and essays for adults. Her novels include the award-winning Nine Lives Trilogy (The Book of Learning, The Book of Shadowsand The Book of Revenge) and Caramel Hearts. Elizabeth will be reading for an adult audience from a selection of recently published essays and short stories. She will also talk about her writing process and publishing journey and answer questions about what it’s like to be a writer. An interactive event suitable for anyone who loves stories.
For more information: 083 845 1750 or create@greywoodarts.org
There are so many people who have helped us get to – and through – year one. From our fabulous intern Sam, to myriad volunteers, we should write an entire post about our gratitude.
greywood arts 