Tubber Hill public art launch in Westport

THE Tubber Hill public art launch took place in Westport on Saturday afternoon.

The initiative is a new participative public art commission recently awarded by Mayo County Council, via open competition, to visual artist Cathal McCarthy, working in collaboration with Mary C. Reilly, poet, and the residents of Tubber Hill.

The launch featured poetry readings from Tubber Hill residents and others, including rappers, jazz music and juggling. The event was enjoyed by many young people who enjoyed learning some circus skills and good food.

A series of creative engagement workshops is planned for the residents to attend during autumn and winter involving creative writing, spoken word, visual art and circus skills.

The public art commission will feature elements of community participation and collaboration involving creative writing workshops by poet Mary C. Reilly and visual art and sculpture making workshops with Cathal McCarthy.

Speaking at the opening, Aoife O'Toole, public art officer for Mayo County Council, said they were looking forward to some great things happening in Tubber Hill and that it was a great opportunity for the residents to come out and get creative while working with the experienced artists.

Artist Cathal McCarthy, from Ballintubber, is well known for creating iconic public art pieces, having recently completed a new sculpture for Sancta Maria Secondary School in Louisburgh. His other sculptures include Stream Spire, Mullingar Town, and The Player in Ballindine, on the N17.

The project is being funded by Mayo County Council through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under the percent for art scheme.