Launch of Mayo's Touchstone public art commission celebrated
THE Touchstones, a public art commission by visual artist James Winnett, has been officially launched at the National Museum of Ireland - Turlough Park.
The Touchstones is a series of 10 intricately carved stones that can be found across sites in Turlough, Breaffy, Islandeady and Raheens Woods. The carvings weave a tale through the landscape, drawing on the folklore, social memory and ecological story of the places in which they stand.
There was a great turnout to the launch which was well attended by local communities and others who had travelled especially. Attendees were welcomed by Aoife O’Toole, public art coordinator, Mayo County Council, followed by a presentation by artist James Winnett who gave an insight into his artistic process which is underpinned by an interest in archaeology, folklore, place, memory and story telling.
The artwork was officially launched by Councillor Al McDonnell, cathaoirleach, Castlebar Municipal District.
After the launch, an artist’s tour guided by James Winnett of the 10 stone carving at Turlough, Breaffy, Islandeady and Raheens Woods took place. James told the story behind the stones and how it is linked to local characters in folklore and history. A publication containing these stories will be available in due course.
Following an open competition, James Winnett was selected for this commission. James is an artist and stone carver who has worked in public art for 15 years and has produced over 50 large stone public artworks across the UK and Ireland.
The project is part of Mayo County Council’s Public Art Programme, funded under the Per Cent for Art Scheme by Transport Infrastructure Ireland as part of the N5 Westport to Turlough road project and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This funding enables the local authority to commission high quality and ambitious contemporary art for the public to experience and enjoy in everyday settings.
Mayo County Council has extended its sincere appreciation to the local communities, Turlough Community Development Association, Breaffy Community Council, Islandeady Community Council, Coillte, Breaffy House Hotel and the National Museum of Ireland - Turlough Park for their support and collaboration.