Local art group hosting exhibition in Athlone Library

The Celtic Eye Art Group is currently hosting an exhibition in the Atrium Space at Athlone Library.

The 'Land of Legends' exhibition opened yesterday (Thursday) and will continue until April 24 in collaboration with St Hilda’s (Athlone), Irish Wheelchair Association (Athlone) and guest artists.

The Celtic Eye Art group, founded by artist and poet Nicola Bowes, is also a core member of the environmental Public Participation Network-registered national award-winning Uí Máine kingdom Group along with Karst Farming Network and Taughmaconnell Community Centre.

They highlight the importance of, and raise awareness of, the unique karst landscape in South Roscommon, its biodiversity, culture, heritage and mythology.

The group uses art, poetry, music, dance, nature walks and talks, events and storytelling to achieve its aims.

The 'Land of Legends' exhibition of art and poetry aims to explore the landscape and its connection to Celtic goddesses and folklore legends.

It includes a piece that featured in the commended garden submission in Bloom 2024 inspired by ecologist Linda Gilsenan and St Brigid. The piece is QR coded to tell the story and legend of Celtic Goddess Brigid.

Celtic legends and goddesses are integral to the cultural identity of Ireland and are associated with natural elements such as land, rivers and mountains.

The group believes that linking these deities to the land and water can cultivate a deeper positive connection to the environment.