Specialising in eco-social art, Jules is also the Secretary and Creative Community Engagement Coordinator of the Drummin Bog Committee, South Carlow’s only raised bog, At the heart of this initiative, was Jules commitment to connecting peatlands and the surrounding communities, through a transformative eco-social arts platform. This project intended to enact change and build leadership in support of valuing nature, enhancing community connections, and embed science and creative activities in the St. Mullins hinterland close to Drummin Bog.

The initiative unfolded through two distinct art and science-based events within the St. Mullins community

The “Thinking on Water” stage involved a canoe trip on the River Barrow with eco-art scientist Tasneem Khan, ‘Go With the Flow’ canoeing, and project participants. This allowed participants to examine St. Mullins and its hinterland from another perspective; that of the river- creating a deeper connection with the river and its ecological significance.

The “Walking in Woods” stage involved a guided walk with ecologist Ciarán Byrne through Bauck Woods (opposite Drummin Bog) down to the Barrow riverbank. This time, participants were invited to examine this part of St. Mullins from an alternative perspective of this special woodland.

The aim, through art and science actions, was to connect and build meaningful relationships between local community groups who are caring for the natural habitats of this special part of South Carlow.

Designed to immerse participants in nature, Thinking on Water, Walking in Woods encouraged people to experience the interconnected landscapes of Drummin Bog, Bauck Woods, and the River Barrow firsthand. By exploring these environments together, participants were able to establish common ground, strengthen relationships, and identify opportunities for future collaborative actions in support of nature conservation.

Experts guided participants, hopefully, deepening their awareness and relationship with these diverse habitats. Time spent together created opportunity for local people to share their own personal stories and experiences of these places, in a new interweaving of knowledges and experiences in support of this unique part of South Carlow.

“I had never experienced the river Barrow or the area this way before, being on the water was so peaceful and made me realise how lucky we are and that they must be protected” Thinking on water participant