Supported under Open Call Strand 3: Individual Creative Bursary – New Work, Artist Dee McKiernan will begin to develop a new body of work, aimed at raising awareness of the biodiversity of the Shannon and Suck River callows. Research will include the study of relevant publications and guides, exploration and sketching in Suck River and Shannon River callows, along with visits to various wetlands which are classified as Special Areas of Conservation.The Project will be realised through a variety of media. 

The project will involve the weaving of structures from reeds and willow, which will be an entirely new learning experience. A series of paintings, drawings, prints and mixed-media art will also be created. Amongst the key artistic goals for this project, are the identification and development of new ways of bringing awareness to the natural wonders of the callows and the importance of preserving this essential wetland environment. Outcomes will be shared with both individuals and local communities, with information being disseminated to as wide an audience as possible. The work will be accessible to people who don't normally visit art galleries, thus making the work and the topic available to a wide demographic range.

Dee will also conduct free drop-in creative workshops for Culture Night 2025. Visitors will create their own works of art on the theme of Callows and will have an opportunity to try out various art forms and to contribute to a collective conversation.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.