PHOTOS: Louth County Council launches Brigid1500 celebrations with unique exhibition

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All photos: Arthur Kinahan

The Brigid1500: Louth ‘Birthplace of Brigid’ Festival evoked the spirit of Ireland’s iconic female patron saint, with the launch of a major exhibition in Dundalk last weekend.

Louth County Council are leading a series of events and projects celebrating the life and legacy of St. Brigid of Faughart, as part of the national Brigid1500 commemorations.

The inaugural event, the Brigid 1500 Arts Exhibition, was launched last Friday at 4-5 Clanbrassil Street in Dundalk. The exhibition will be open to the public for viewing until 5 February, Bank Holiday Monday.

The exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the life and impact of St. Brigid, through vibrant art pieces created by acclaimed artists Susan Farrelly, Una Curley, Claire McAteer, and Etaoin O’Reilly and led by Grainne Murphy.

These art pieces, a fusion of various mediums, aim to capture the remarkable life story of one of Ireland’s best-known saints, featuring original art pieces from Louth County Council’s ‘Artist in the Community’ project, which has been running across the county over the past 12 months. 

The exhibition will also feature the incredible St. Brigid’s Cloak which was created by the students at St. Brigid’s School, Ard Easmuinn last year and which was toured around the libraries throughout the summer.

The ‘St. Brigid of Ireland’ Museum Exhibition at the County Museum, Dundalk, will be a stunning showcase honouring the life and accomplishments of one of our most revered saints. The exhibition explores her connections to both Pagan and Christian traditions, and runs until 29 February.

A newly devised ‘Brigid: Lady of Light’ theatrical performance at An Táin Arts Centre from 1-2 February, promises an immersive theatrical experience, recounting St. Brigid’s compelling story from birth in Faughart to her legacy in Kildare.

Commissioned by the Council this piece features local musicians, dancers and singers along with the Setanta Choir in what promises to be a wonderful evening of music and song to celebrate our female icon. Tickets for the event are available at: www.antain.ie/event/ brigid-lady-of-light/

Joan Martin, Chief Executive of Louth County Council welcomed the launch of the festival, saying: “We are delighted that after months of careful planning, the festivities are now underway, and welcome everyone to join us in celebrating the incredible legacy of St. Brigid of Faughart.

“The Brigid1500 celebrations are an important milestone in our nation’s history, but are especially significant for County Louth, which as the birthplace of Brigid, is where her inspiring life story began.

“Louth County Council are delighted to lead this exciting festival of events and initiatives which showcase Louth’s vibrant cultural heritage, while commemorating the life and lasting impact of Brigid.”

A wide range of events are being held as part of the Brigid1500 celebrations in Louth, see link below for full programme: www.visitlouth.ie/visitor-info/ brigid1500.html