Murmuration exhibition features work by artists from Westmeath, Offaly and Finland
Westmeath Community Development and Offaly Local Development are presenting Murmuration, an exhibition featuring work created by 16 designers, makers, and artists from Westmeath, Offaly and Finland.
The exhibition runs from January 13 until March 2 at Esker Arts Centre in Tullamore, and will be officially opened by Eddie Shanahan, business and product development consultant on January 12 at 5.30pm.
Murmuration emerged from the Craftlink programme, which provided the creators with opportunities to meet in Ireland and Finland.
The participating artists were captivated by the idea of working together, forming pairs that engaged in the exchange of ideas, experiences and skills.
The collaboration inspired most of the creators to choose to work with pure natural materials, connecting them more strongly, despite their geographic distance.
Murmuration serves as a reminder of the power of community, connectivity, and trust, says the organisers, and the pieces in the exhibition are intertwined with the rich mythology of Ireland and Finland, reflecting a personal connection to self, a reverence for nature, and a celebration of cultural heritage.
The collection is a testament to the fact that, regardless of cultural differences, we are all influenced by folklore, stories, our individual journeys, our wellbeing, and the inspiration we draw from the natural world and our creative expression.
Craftlink is a cultural exchange programme that explores heritage and culture, with a focus on developing new techniques and product development.
Developed by Westmeath Community Development, Offaly Local Development Company, Rieska and Keskipiste Leader (Finland), and funded through the LEADER Rural Development Programme. Craftlink seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of the creative sector to our national economy and the support required for sustainable growth.
The exhibition will be open Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm, and Saturday 10am-3pm, at Esker Arts Centre, Tullamore, Co Offaly.
Design Teams
• John Farrell (Esker Design) and Tero Mäkelä (Mäkelän Puukonttori) – The Barren table and Karu Cabinet
• Hazel Greene and Pauliina Yliniitty – My Enchanted World
• Helen Conneely (Celtic Roots Studio) and Marika Saarela – Selkie
• Aisling Muller (Life’s Changing Landscape) and Juha Peltola (Pieni Puusepänverstas) – Kirstu Sláinte
• Rosemarie Langtry and Johanna Smed (Lempiverstas) – Let her Bee
• Claire Guinan and Johanna Riepula – The Circling- Kaarrella Collection
• Jane Walsh (Button Studio) and Jaana Vähäsöyrinki – Momentum
• Teresa Doyle Bespoke Dolls and Craft and Jaana Öljymäki (Design JaanaÖ) – Figure Dance