People living in and around the Ballyhoura and Galtee Mountains are being invited to take part in a series of free creative community workshops in early October, exploring the rich wildlife and our connections that make these peatlands so special.
Hosted by Nature Network Ireland, in partnership with Ballyhoura Development, the workshops will bring together the local community to co-create a public exhibition inspired by the people who know these landscapes best. The hands-on workshops will offer participants the opportunity to learn more about peatland ecology and biodiversity, explore their own connections with these remarkable habitats and contribute to a shared vision for their future.
Rachel Dowling will introduce participants to the ecology of these internationally important habitats, highlighting the vital role peatlands play in supporting biodiversity, storing carbon, improving water quality and building climate resilience. Creative facilitator and artist Becky Hatchett will then guide participants through a series of collaborative activities exploring the Ballyhoura and Galtee Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) peatlands, bringing together local stories, knowledge and experiences to co-create a series of artworks for public exhibition.
The resulting artworks will form part of a public exhibition celebrating local knowledge, community voices and the enduring value of the Ballyhoura and Galtee peatlands.
“These workshops are about recognising and celebrating the wealth of knowledge that already exists within the Ballyhoura and Galtee regions,” Rhiannon Laubach, Development Officer, Ballyhoura Development said.
“Everyone has a different connection to these landscapes—whether through farming, walking, wildlife, family history or simply spending time there. By bringing those experiences together we’re creating an opportunity for local people to help shape how these special places are understood, valued and cared for into the future.”
Participants are also invited, if they wish, to bring along an object that reflects their personal connection to the Ballyhoura or Galtee peatlands, such as a photograph, map or keepsake. Bringing something is entirely optional and all materials will be provided. No artistic experience is needed and everyone is welcome!
The first workshop will take place in Forrest Hall, Mitchelstown (11am to 3pm) on Saturday, 10th October. While the following day, Sunday 11th, Deebert House Hotel in Kilmallock, will host a workshop at the same time.
Free registration online at https://naturenetworkireland.ie/support/attend-events/
For more information contact Cathy Fitzgibbon, project manager on projects@naturenetworkireland.ie
