Local artist's Callows exhibition to open this week

For the past year, Kiltoom artist Dee McKiernan has been creating a body of art work aimed at raising awareness of the Special Area of Conservation known as “the Callows”.

These liminal spaces between river and dry land are home to a wide variety of plant, animal and bird life. Several are scarce species which risk being lost forever if their habitat is not respected and protected. The callows are also of great cultural significance, since traditional farming methods and the use of flat-bottomed boats in previous generations were instrumental in preserving our natural heritage.

Inspired by the natural beauty and exceptional biodiversity of the Shannon and Suck floodlands, Dee’s collection of work has been created with paint, print, recycled textiles, willow charcoal, photography and 3-D sculptures using mostly natural materials.

The artist is excited to present “Our Crucial Callows” in Aras an Chontae, Roscommon Town in conjunction with National Biodiversity Week and the launch of the Roscommon Heritage Strategy.

Dee has developed this art work in memory of her late Dad Michael, whose knowledge of and love for Ireland’s rivers and lakes were integral to his being. Dee hopes this exhibition will evoke a sense of wonder and a desire to look anew at these local wetlands.

The official opening, in conjunction with the launch of the Roscommon Heritage Strategy 2025-2029, will take place at 6pm on Wednesday, May 20 in Aras an Chontae. The exhibition will continue for one month.

Dee is grateful to Gerard Hannon, Biodiversity Officer, Roscommon County Council, Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer, Roscommon County Council, Creative Ireland and all who assisted in and supported the research and realization of the project.