Cois Cuain Chorr na Móna

This placemaking project will be delivered through fieldwork and a series of workshops that explore the natural, linguistic, geological, cultural and built heritage of the lake. Children will be led in fieldwork by Helena McElmeel Architects and visual artist Joanna McGlynn, encouraged to engage in close observation and exploration of their immediate environment. These experiences will support the children in developing a deeper contextual understanding of place, history, and landscape.

‘Eco-Advocate’ Jennifer Cunningham of Corrib Beo will lead a workshop focusing on biodiversity and water quality in Lough Corrib. Through this exploration, the children will gain insight into ecological systems and develop an appreciation of their local natural environment and their duty of care. Local experts will engage children in learning about the unique geology of the area, recently recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, and the relationship between folklore, an Ghaeilge and the landscape of Lough Corrib, fostering knowledge and pride in the children’s native language and environment, and instilling a sense of belonging and appreciation in the youth in the context of their locality.

The young people will be further engaged by artist Joanna McGlynn in a playful, imaginative and collaborative in-class creative placemaking workshops, supporting the children through mapping exercises, creative storytelling, sketching & modelmaking using various materials.