Patron: Sabina Coyne Higgins
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Patron: Sabina Coyne Higgins
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
In 2023 wool and heritage came to the National Ploughing Championships. In association with Kildare County Council, Creative Ireland and Wool in School, introducing a community artwork made from Irish Grown Wool, visitors were invited to test their craft skills with a variety of techniques to create wool elements crafted together to create wool cloaks to commemorate St Brigid's 1500.
Four stunning St Brigid’s Cloaks were crafted with an all encompassing approach to wool heritage and art. This project developed & curated by Wool In School Director and Artist Lorna McCormack and Lead Artist Michelle Hickey Legge focused on using locally sourced Irish grown wool and sustainable resources. All which aligned with the ethos of Wool In School and a number of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.
These colourful and creatively designed commemorative cloaks were made with Irish Grown wool from the Galway Wool Co-Op, Donegal Yarns, Ériu and Ciarán's Yarns.
Over 950 men, women and children, including experienced knitters across Ireland and 250 school children from the town of Kildare contributed to these beautiful St. Brigid’s Cloaks.
Wool in School Artist in Residence
Creative Ireland Programme
Kildare County Council
Saint Brigid was a remarkable woman deserving of recognition: a founder, miracle worker, innovator, and a figure of kindness, humility, and sanctity.
A short video looking back at the community artwork celebrating rural communities, heritage crafts, and sustainable industries. Watch the installation of the four cloaks in St Brigid’s Cathedral Kildare Town, in conjunction with the St Brigid 1500 celebrations of Irelands female patron saint.
2024
To honour this all-island community artwork initiative, the four St Brigid’s Cloaks will travel the island of Ireland. They will be close to you, so you can see and learn about St. Brigid and the Irish Wool used to create the commemorative cloaks.
February to May 2024
In celebration of St. Brigid's 1,500th anniversary, the handcrafted St. Brigid’s Commemorative Cloaks could be viewed in the beautiful surroundings of St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare Town.
June to August 2024
The Festival of Cloaks, taking place at the historic St. Columb's Cathedral in Derry, is a unique festival that celebrates the rich heritage and artistry of cloak-making, showcasing traditional skills, contemporary designs, and the fascinating stories behind these iconic garments. Here you will see the St Brigid's Commemorative Cloaks on display until end of August.