Athy Brigid event celebrates 'extraordinary women'

THE BEAUTY of Brigid exhibition, hosted by artists Anthony Haughey and Cathy Callan, opened in Art House Athy over the Brigid bank holiday with many guests in attendance.

Attendees included Frank, Bríd and Séamus Taaffe, Mary Pat Moloney from Croí Anú, Dr Teevan from Kilkenny, creative producer and art consultant, and Colm Walsh after a successful 'He for She' concert in over the previous weekend.

Carmel Day, singer, performer and local youth mentor opened the exhibition. Cathy spoke about the inspiration behind the artworks including St Brigid's shawl, a knitted creation by Carol Shaughnessy and Athy Women's Shed. After that cathaoirleach Aoife Breslin gave a thought-provoking speech referencing women from the exhibition titled "in honour of those that sowed the seed” about the powerful women who had inspired her own journey.

The exhibition showcases work by Kildare Traveller Action Women's Group, and Athy Men and Women’s Sheds in collaboration with Cathy. 

Championing themes connected to the life of St Brigid the contributing artists highlighted our responsibility in caring for the environment with many artworks produced from recycled materials. Artist and organiser Cathy Callan said: “Artworks also celebrated the ordinary and extraordinary women in our lives.” 

Exhibitors include Jeannette Landcaster, Breda Gavagan, Muriel Hendy, Mary Farrell, Theresa Cleary Bridgette, Maree Keogh, Agnes Quinn, Carol Shaughnessy, Johanna Lyons, Anthony O'Grady, Clifford Reid and Mick Dunne.

The exhibition will run until 20 February and visitors are invited to join Cathy in completing a large painting of St Brigid in the meantime. Students from teacher Irene Bond's class in Scoil Mhichíl Naofa have already contributed as well as many other visitors.