Moate's Dún na Sí to host series of workshops for adults in September

Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park in Moate is inviting adults to enjoy a series of creative workshops in the coming weeks, which it says will be an opportunity to "learn new skills, experiment, and simply have fun".

These events begin on Saturday, 12 September, with a full-day traditional basket-weaving workshop, led by the Irish Heritage Crafts Co-op.

"Participants will learn how to make a beautiful round basket with a durable leather handle, taking them through every stage of the process - from creating the base and adding the uprights to weaving the sides and fitting the finished leather handle," said Dún na Sí in a statement.

"The workshop is suitable for beginners and offers a wonderful opportunity to learn a traditional craft while creating something practical and long-lasting. A reasonable level of hand strength and mobility is required.

"Participants with arthritic hands may find the full-day course challenging, but assistance will be available to anyone who may need a helping hand."

Culture Night returns on Friday, September 18, and Dún na Sí will be taking part again.

As part of this national celebration of culture and creativity, artist Patsy Preston will lead an adults-only mosaic workshop, continuing the second phase of the community art project 'Our Wall, Our Story'.

Participants will be invited to explore the colourful world of mosaic art, experimenting with different techniques, shapes, textures and colours while creating their own unique pieces.

"No previous art experience is needed - just bring your creativity and be ready to have fun," said Dún na Sí. It added that the project's legacy will continue long after Culture Night has ended.

"The mosaics created during the project will be permanently installed in the Amenity Park, giving participants the opportunity to leave their own mark on Dún na Sí and become part of the park’s story.

"By adding your own piece to the artwork, you can help create a lasting community legacy that visitors will be able to enjoy for years to come."

The Culture Night mosaic workshop is free, but booking is essential as places are limited.

The creativity continues Friday and Saturday, 25–26 September, with another instalment of Patsy Preston’s popular Dye Garden Workshops at Dún na Sí.

Set in the amenity park's beautiful Ringfort, these hands-on workshops offer participants the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of natural dyes and traditional textile techniques. The exact programme for each day will be announced shortly.

"Whether you are already familiar with natural dyeing or simply curious to discover something new, the workshops offer a chance to get creative and explore the endless possibilities of plants, colour and natural processes," said Dún na Sí.

More details are available on the amenity and heritage park's website at: dunnasi.ie