‘Living Laneways’, is an innovative laneway trail where artists can respond creatively to public laneways in Roscommon Town and to its history, story and community.

Project Background

Roscommon County Council and its project partners wish to bring people and a diversity of urban functions together in central places which, for most of their existence, have been places of public interaction and commerce. The full project seeks to create a functionally diverse, connected and people-friendly sequence of town centre spaces which frame and celebrate the architecture, and to create a town centre which existing and future residents can take pride in, and which visitors are drawn to.

Back streets and laneways link residents and visitors toward the town centre and the ‘Living Laneways’ project considers laneways as places traditionally occupied by skills, trades and guilds. This commissioning programme aims to provide visual enhancement to the laneway links approaching the Main Street and Market Square.

The first three commissions;

• Mosaic Laneway
• Sculpture on the Square
• Poetry Laneway

... are all part of the final elements of the Roscommon Town Main Street & Market Square Public Realm Project funded under the 2018 Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and developed by Roscommon County Council Regeneration team working with GKMP Architects, artist Rhona Byrne (who developed the Living Laneways concept) and a multidisciplinary group appointed to implement the innovative architectural and artistically influenced Covered Civic Space in Roscommon Town Centre.

The Living Laneways Public Art Programme will continue to grow through Creative Ireland Roscommon support, with the first commission completed in 2025;

• The Bee Lane

Hynes Lane / The Mosaic Laneway

Illustrator CHRIS JUDGE in collaboration with TRISKELL DESIGNS were awarded this commission for the design and execution of a community informed Mosaic Laneway. 

Public Art Launch

On November 15th 2025, Councillor Liam Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, and Roscommon Arts Office welcomed attendees to the Public Art Launch of Sculpture on the Square & The Mosaic Laneway.

These new features highlight Roscommon’s considerable tradition in craftwork and celebrates Roscommon’s local history and rural agricultural community. The group visited both artworks before being welcomed back to Gleesons Restaurant for artist talks, refreshments and ending with a film screening of Roscommon’s Mosaic Tradition.

As part of the extensive regeneration of Roscommon town in recent years, there has been a transformation of the town. In tandem with the regenerative works, Roscommon County Council’s Arts Office have spearheaded a series of new artistic works that support the revitalised community spaces, under the innovative public art programme: ‘Living Laneways’.

Living Laneways, a concept devised by artist Rhona Byrne working with GKMP Architects on the overall public realm project and civic space in the town centre, has enabled artists to respond creatively to Roscommon’s story, history and community and provide visual enhancement to the laneway links approaching the Main Street and Market Square.

Image above: Artist Chris Judge with his daughters on the Mosaic Laneway

Image above: L-R Councillor Liam Callaghan, Cathaoirleach Roscommon County Council; Rhona McGrath, RCC Art Officer; Rhona Byrne, Artist ‘Living Laneways'; Mary Smyth, RCC Public Art & Engagement Coordinator

The Mosaic Laneway at Hynes Lane

For generations, Roscommon town has enjoyed an unrivalled reputation for the production of mosaics. That reputation inspired countless shop fronts in Roscommon and neighbouring counties for the uniqueness of these mosaics, a fact celebrated by RTE’s Nationwide programme earlier this year.

Following the footsteps of generations before, the largest commission of the series The Mosaic Laneway by illustrator Chris Judge & Triskell Designs, connects a contemporary style with tributes to the past for a new audience who walks the lane.

Community informed, students from St Comans Wood Primary school and Co. Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society, among others, engaged in workshops with Chris Judge to establish the elements that should be highlighted in the mosaic’s design.

The visuals highlight notable locations and buildings one can visit in Roscommon, local fauna and flora, and celebrates local history with characters of significance such as Aleen Cust, first woman veterinary surgeon in Britain and Ireland who trained in Roscommon, and Lady Betty, an Irish executioner connected with Roscommon’s Old Gaol.

Chris Judge shared, “My father has also made an appearance as one of the figures walking the laneway – he always makes it into the work!”

Images above: St. Comans Wood National School School Engagement sessions with artist

Images above: Aleen Cust, first woman veterinary surgeon in Britain and Ireland who trained in Roscommon

Images above: Local figure Irish Executioner connected with Roscommon Gaol 'Lady Betty'

Images above: Chris Judge's father who appears in the work

The background of geometric mosaic patterns pays homage to Roscommon’s unique, internationally significant, mosaic heritage and tradition by referencing examples of wonderful Italian mosaics found throughout Roscommon town.

Chris Judge reflected, “The team at Triskill and I feel very honoured to have been chosen to create this mosaic for the people of Roscommon town. It is both a celebration and a remembrance of generations of people who have called it their home. Designed through a series of community workshops with local groups, it carries the voices and creativity of many hands. Together, we explored patterns, colours, and stories that reflect the history of the lane—a pathway walked for centuries by workers, families, and visitors. We were thrilled to discover the rich history of mosaics in Roscommon town, particularly the work of Luciano Di Paulo, Sergio Benedetti, and John Crean, and we referenced some of their designs in ours. Laura Earley's book, ‘Artistic Mosaics in the West of Ireland,’ was an invaluable resource as we designed the artworks. The mosaic weaves these traces of the past into a vibrant artwork that honours the footsteps of those before, while welcoming new ones yet to come.”

All commissions in this programme went through a competitive assessment process and were considered by a wide selection of local voices, including student representatives from three of the local secondary schools. There were also many other locals who helped with informing the artworks and whom supported the delivery and installations of the projects.

Arts Officer Rhona McGrath commented: “Public Art’s value is in how it connects with people, events and places, creating positive relationships, linkages and collaborations between artists, commissioners and local communities.”

Image above: Chris and Vicky Flynn looking at The Mosaic Laneway

Roscommon’s Mosaic Tradition

The launch event concluded with a screening of Roscommon’s Mosaic Tradition, a short documentary funded by the Heritage Council. Roscommon County Council Heritage and Arts Office commissioned the film in collaboration with local Roscommon businessman, Liam Stephens. Filmed by PureDesigns, it features insights on Roscommon’s unique mosaic heritage that has been synonymous with the town for generations and features contributions from locals who worked in the industry including: Tom Kilroe, Sergio Benedetti, Patsy Flanagan, Benny Mulhern, and many more who contributed photos. 

Local Liam Stephens, whose uncle and father worked in a later mosaic company, spoke to the local industry in his opening words. Followed by Meabh Brosnan, a mosaic maker, educator and member of the mosaic association of Ireland, who noted Roscommon’s international mosaic legacy. They are now asking the public for contributions on the local industry.

Roscommon County Council also announced they have opened a Citizen Scientist Mosaic Mapping page which allows the public to submit information, images and pin locations of the many examples of mosaics around the county. Available at: Roscommon Mosaic Mapping

Mary Smyth, Public Art & Engagement Coordinator, noted, “Public art can inspire people to find out more about their local place. Following on from The Mosaic Laneway, which highlights local places and people of interest, we hope this mapping project will act as a resource and assist people to further engage and explore Roscommon’s mosaics.”

Funding

These commissions were funded through the Per Cent for Art scheme as part of the overall Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project, under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.

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Alleé De Chartrettes / The Bee Lane

Image of artist Graham Reid at the Bee Lane launch in Roscommon Town 9.5.2025_by Cian Flynn

Roscommon County Council invited submissions by artists on our Roscommon Public Art Panel for a new Creative Laneway as part of the Living Laneways Programme at Alleé De Chartrettes. Artist Graham Reid was awarded the commission of €25,000 for their proposal 'Bee’s Eye View of a Wildflower Landscape'.

A series of large scale vibrant, digitally created images on aluminium plates which will be installed on the surface of each section of the walls of the lane. It will transport pedestrians into a magical world of wildflowers in ultraviolet colours as seen through the eyes of a bee (visible to bees and other pollinators). This perspective will highlight the unseen beauty and complexity of plants, while also emphasising the importance of pollinators in Ireland’s ecosystem.

There were artist-led sessions with the local secondary school on the themes referenced in this project, including the use of new digital technologies, such as digital imagery and AI, within an artistic process.

Launch of Bee Lane in Roscommon town with artist Graham Reid & representatives from the local Tidy Towns committee by Cian Flynn // L-R: Martha Gregory, Graham Reid, John Larkin, Rosemary McManus.

Launch of Bee Lane in Roscommon town with artist Graham Reid by Cian Flynn // L-R: Fiona Ní Chuinn (SEO at Roscommon County Council), Chris Flynn (Director of Services at at Roscommon County Council), Paschal Fitzmaurice (Cathaoirleach), Graham Reid (artist)

PRESS RELEASE - Roscommon Launches ‘Bee Lane’ – A New Artistic Landmark in Living Laneways Series
Roscommon Town, 9 May 2025 

Roscommon’s laneways came alive with colour and creativity today as the latest Living Laneways commission, Bee Lane, was officially launched at Allée de Chartrettes. The celebratory event marks another milestone in the town’s commitment to revitalising public spaces through community-centred art.

At the event, the Bee Lane was officially launched by the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, who praised the initiative for its role in bringing people together:

“This artwork will bring joy to people coming through the lane way, giving an opportunity to slow down, think about it and talk about it and will be a lasting, vibrant symbol of creativity.”

The Bee Lane installation was commissioned following a competitive and community-inclusive selection process. Assessment of artist proposals involved local groups such as Roscommon Tidy Towns, the Chamber of Commerce, Roscommon Town Team, local representatives, and student representatives from each of the town’s secondary schools—ensuring the final selection reflected the diverse voices of Roscommon.

The selected artist, Graham Reid, was awarded the commission for his imaginative proposal Bee’s Eye View of a Wildflower Landscape. Inspired by how bees perceive ultraviolet patterns in flowers, Reid used digital and AI-generated imagery to create a surreal, immersive experience printed on large-scale aluminium panels along the laneway walls. Speaking at the launch event held at Gleeson’s Townhouse, Reid remarked:

“The people around the artwork need to own it… that’s what public art is.”

He described his use of AI as a natural extension of traditional artistic tools:

“If you have an intention and the results match that intention, then it’s the right tool. Whether it’s glassblowing or sculpture, it’s about coaxing a tool to produce your intention.”

Bee Lane joins other celebrated commissions under the Living Laneways programme, such as Poetry Laneway, Mosaic Laneway, and Sculpture on the Square. Living Laneways seeks to creatively reimagine the back streets of Roscommon Town, connecting public space, history, and artistic expression.

Mary Smyth, Public Art & Engagement Coordinator at Roscommon County Council, noted:

“With each new laneway, we see public art strengthening the town’s identity—bringing people together and creating new reasons to explore Roscommon.”

The launch was attended by members of Roscommon County Council staff and management team, community representatives, and the artist Graham Reid.

The Bee Lane project was supported by Creative Ireland Roscommon and forms part of the broader Roscommon Town Main Street & Market Square Public Realm Project, funded through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.

For more information, please contact
Áine Butler - abutler@roscommoncoco.ie
Creative Communities Engagement Officer, Roscommon County Council.

____________________________

Chapel Lane / The Poetry Laneway

Image of poets Louise G. Cole, Jane Clarke, Dani Gill and music and composer Phil Robson launching their works on the new Poetry Laneway in Roscommon Town

PRESS RELEASE: POETRY LANEWAY LAUNCHED ON NATIONAL POETRY DAY AT CHAPEL LANE, ROSCOMMON
Roscommon Town, 25 April 2024

A new Poetry Laneway was launched on National Poetry Day, Thursday 25th April, at Chapel Lane in Roscommon Town. Specially commissioned poems by three contemporary poets, Jane Clarke, Louise G. Cole and Dani Gill now light up this important historic laneway, presented in glowing lightboxes. Musician and composer Phil Robson collaborated with the writers, creating a custom music composition for each of the poems, available by scanning a QR code located on each of the boxes. The artists involved launched the laneway with an in-person event at 3pm.

Mary Smyth, Public Art & Engagement Coordinator at Roscommon County Council, welcomed the crowd:

“The Poetry Laneway is to become a space for groups to gather. Following an open call out to artists and a process of assessment involving a large group of community and local student representatives, Dani Gill was awarded this commission with her thoughtful response to the Poetry Laneway brief, and to engage with local poets and a musician. The project themes evolved when she met with Marian Harlow, a member of the Co. Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society who shared some of the significant details and history of this laneway.”

Dani Gill, project curator highlighted, “My poem was inspired by the story of the arrival of the Sisters of Mercy to Roscommon town and in particular, the work they did for, and with women. It was an unexpected showing of feminist activism that I found inspiring. The Sisters of Mercy brought financial aid to women, and had vision for development in the community. I chose to focus on this as it is not the kind of spotlight we usually see on these parts of our history.”

Local poet Louise G. Cole shared “I was inspired by the actual place. Distilling the wonderful history of Chapel Lane into a single poem was quite a challenge - but one I'm so honoured and happy to have had the opportunity to work on.”

Louise G. Cole with her son and daughter at the Poetry Laneway Launch.

Living Laneways is an innovative trail where artists can respond creatively to public laneways in Roscommon Town and to its history, story and community. The Poetry Laneway is the first of this public art programme, a concept devised by artist Rhona Byrne with GKMP Architects and a multidisciplinary team appointed to implement the overall innovative architecturally and artistically influenced civic space in the town centre, working with Roscommon County Council’s Regeneration Team. A Mosaic Laneway and sculpture have also been commissioned as part of the programme.

Arts Officer Rhona McGrath commented: “Public Art’s value is in how it connects with people, events and places, creating positive relationships, linkages and collaborations between artists, commissioners and local communities.”

Image Left: Poet Jane Clarke speaking about her work at the Poetry Laneway Launch

Poet Jane Clarke shared, “My poem was inspired by reading about the origins of Roscommon town; that it all began with a well in a field. I learned about St. Coman’s Well or Dubach Chomain in the Roscommon Town Heritage website and The History of St. Coman’s Church, written by John Kerrigan and illustrated by Albert Siggins.”

Musician Phil Robson concluded, “As a County Roscommon resident, it was great to be involved in this project and to have three wonderful and totally different poems, which all incorporate local historical themes to work with as the inspiration for my soundscape/compositions.”

The overall laneway enhancements form the final elements of Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project, funded through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as part of Project Ireland 2040 to include match funding from Roscommon County Council.

Photo of Dani Gill, project curator and poet at the Poetry Laneway Launch

Photo at the Poetry Laneway Launch, L - R: Rhona McGrath (Arts Officer), Phil Robson (Musician & Composer), Louise G. Cole (Poet), Jane Clarke (Poet), Dani Gill (Poet & Project Curator), Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Mary Smyth (Public art & Engagement Coordinator). 

Above: Photos of the Poetry Laneway at night.

Held Together / Á Choimeád le Chéile

A Twist of Twine, new sculpture on the square ties Roscommon’s heritage past to its future.

Roscommon Town’s newly redeveloped Market Square last week welcomed a striking new addition to its civic landscape with the unveiling of Held Together, a large-scale bronze sculpture by acclaimed artists Simon Carman and Dr. Helen Sharp.

Inspired by a simple coil of baling twine, Held Together / Á Choimeád le Chéile is a playful tribute to Roscommon’s deep agricultural roots. Hand-finished with layers of a vibrant blue patina, the county town now has a feature of its own that stands proudly in the heart of the square, offering a fresh perspective on the everyday objects that bind rural life. The work also references seasonality through its association with hay and straw production – the heart of ancient and modern livestock farming in Roscommon and other rural communities.

“This piece is about resilience, ingenuity, and the quiet creativity of farming life,” said artist Simon Carman. “Inspired by a phrase we heard by a local farmer ‘sure it’s only held together with twine’. We wanted to create something that felt familiar and joyful. Something that would make people smile.”

The sculpture’s circular form not only echoes ancient crafts but also cleverly acts as a visual lens, framing everyday snapshots of the town and its architecture and inviting passersby to see Roscommon anew and take pictures together in the area. Its vibrant colour and organic shape sit harmoniously within the newly revitalised square, blending elegantly tradition with modern flair.

Commissioned through a competitive assessment process, where 24 national and international artists applied. The assessment included representatives from Roscommon Tidy Towns, the Chamber of Commerce, Roscommon Town Team, and students from the three town’s secondary schools, ensuring the final artwork was considered by a wide selection of local voices.

The artists have been working on this technically complex piece for over a year, having started by engaging with the community and local artists with an informal presentation of the concept at Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday 13th July 2024, as part of its regular Artist Café series.

Funded through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund as part of the overall Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project. The artistic elements of the project are funded under the government’s Per Cent for Art Scheme whereby 1% of the cost of any publicly funded capital, infrastructural and building development can be allocated to the commissioning of a work of art. Previous commissions as part of this allocation have included the Poetry Laneway (Chapel Lane) and the partly completed Mosaic Laneway (Hynes Lane).

PRESS STATEMENT JUNE 8TH 2025

New Sculpture on the Square unveiled in Roscommon Town

Roscommon Town’s newly redeveloped Market Square last week welcomed a striking new addition to its civic landscape with the unveiling of Held Together, a large-scale bronze sculpture by acclaimed artists Simon Carman and Dr. Helen Sharp. The work will be officially launched at a later date.

Held Together - a celebration of community, craft, and culture - is part of Roscommon’s Living Laneways public art programme coordinated by Roscommon’s Arts & Culture Office. The programme is funded through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) as part of the Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project.

Inspired by a simple coil of baling twine, Held Together / Á Choimeád le Chéile is a playful tribute to the region’s agricultural heritage. Cast in bronze and hand-finished with layers of a vibrant blue patina, the sculpture now stands proudly in the heart of the town, offering a fresh perspective on the everyday objects that bind rural life.

Colin O'Tool, who helped install the sculpture, with project artists Simon Carmen and Dr. Helen Sharp.

“This piece is about resilience, ingenuity, and the quiet creativity of farming life,” said artist Simon Carman. “The idea and the title emerged from a phrase we heard by a local farmer ‘sure it’s only held together with twine’. We wanted to create something that felt familiar and joyful. Something that would make people smile.”

The work also references seasonality through its association with hay and straw production – the heart of ancient and modern livestock agriculture in Roscommon and other rural communities.

Artists were required to propose a work to sit on a pre-designed, polished concrete plinth. The sculpture’s circular form not only references ancient crafts but will also act as a visual lens, framing everyday snapshots of the town’s architecture and inviting viewers to see Roscommon anew. Its bold colour and organic shape sit harmoniously within the newly revitalised square, bridging the old and the new with elegance and warmth.

The public realm project was developed by Roscommon County Council Regeneration team, GKMP Architects, and artist Rhona Byrne (who developed the Living Laneways concept). Previous public art commissions have included the Poetry Laneway, Mosaic Laneway and Bee Lane installation. Together with Creative Ireland funding, these commissions invite artists to creatively respond to the town’s laneways, history, and community.

The selection of Held Together was the result of a competitive assessment process with 24 national and international artists applying to this commission. It involved contributions from local groups such as Roscommon Tidy Towns, the Chamber of Commerce, Roscommon Town Team, and student representatives from the three town’s secondary schools. Ensuring the final artwork was considered by a wide selection of voices from the local community.

Mary Smyth, Public Art and Engagement Coordinator with Roscommon County Council commended the artists who engaged with the application process: “In their proposal the artists pitched Held Together as a new, playful symbol of the strength and spirit of Roscommon, reflecting Roscommon’s deep agricultural roots while also creatively highlighting the importance of a connected community. These elements were significant and resonated strongly with the assessment panel.”

After being awarded the commission, artist Simon Carman engaged with the community and local artists with an informal presentation of the exciting new sculpture concept at Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday 13th July 2024, as part of its regular Artist Café series.

Mr. Carmen discussed ancient processes of bronze casting with modern technologies (such as 3D scanning objects) to showcase how the work would be created. The session ended with a thought-provoking questions and answers session on Roscommon, community and public art.  

Mr. Carman and Dr. Sharp, who previously spent time in Roscommon as artists-in-residence in 2015 at Roscommon Arts Centre, expressed their delight at returning to the town.

“Roscommon has always inspired us,” said Dr. Helen Sharp, adding: “This sculpture is our way of giving something back, a celebration of the people, the place, and the stories that hold it all together.”

Their earlier project, entitled Wilderness in Modified Landscapes, explored the intersection of agriculture practice and wilderness through text and sculpture. A research-led exhibition that lay the groundwork for their continued engagement with the region.

Held Together now stands as a beacon of creativity and connection in Roscommon Town, symbolising the strength and spirit that binds the community, and enhancing the artistic reputation of the town.

ENDS.

In 2025, Roscommon County Council directly invited an artistic mural this summer for the new skatepark as part of the final elements of works for Monksland Community Park, funded under Town & Village 2021.

The invitation was sent to a provider currently on the RCC Public Art Artist Panel: The Walls Project (known for Waterford Walls). They appointed artist Omin for this commission, an established and internationally recognised graphic artist from Dundalk.

About the Artist!

Omin is a graphic artist with a 20 year history rooted in Graffiti. Hailing from Dundalk, Omin has been painting and traveling extensively, becoming established on the international graffiti art scene. Painting in cities across the globe from New York, London, Barcelona, Lisbon, Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Omin works across a variety of mediums and surfaces ranging from large-scale murals, canvas works and explorations in print.

Omin’s graffiti pieces encapsulate traditional graffiti elements where letterforms can become deconstructed or in some cases verge on the abstract. Not one to stick to a routine, Omin's style is ever evolving. His work also explores the human figure, painting characters with photorealistic and illustrative qualities mixing graphic elements influenced by glitches in everyday use of digital technology.

Project Details

In the design process, the artist will engage locally with a group from:

• Monksland Youth Café, facilitated by Roscommon LEADER Partnership (10-17yrs)
• Illustration students from TUS Athlone Campus.

These workshops, held 26th May 2025, were informal brainstorming sessions where the young people could share ideas for the area’s design, the main goal being to gather their input to ensure the final space reflects their vision.

“When chatting with the Animation students and the youth group in Monksland the idea of including a reference to nature and the proximity of the river Shannon was apparent. In an attempt to marry these two elements - Nature, combined with graphic shapes, I was inspired by the ‘Fibonacci sequence’, often associated with the Golden Ratio - A logarithmic spiral that appears frequently in nature for example, seeds in a sunflower or spirals of seashells. This mural combines flat vibrant colours and geometric patterns utilising the lines (already in the concrete) as a grid to overlay the shape. The rigid shapes in the centre represent The Shannon River which cuts through the centre. An introduction of softer and more playful floral elements weaves in and out of the graphic shapes in the background to bring movement to the overall piece and enhance the connection to the surroundings.” - Omin

Roscommon County Council worked in partnership with Coillte to deliver an outdoor recreation scheme for Mote Park in Co. Roscommon, Ireland courtesy of funding from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2022. Outscape delivered the scheme as Project Manager.

Context: 

The scheme included the delivery of –
• Public Art – design, build & install of 4 x sculptures inspired by the unique characteristics and themes of Mote Park
• Play Area – bespoke design, build and installation of a new, accessible play area
• Sensory Trail – 3no. sensory ‘stations’ located along the existing Crofton Trail
• New brand for the site & design and installation of signage.

Artists responded to a commission call out for four themed permanent public art sculptures at pre-determined locations within Mote Park:

Sculpture 1 Nature & Biodiversity - €15,000
Sculpture 2 The Woodlands and Woodland Management - €25,000
Sculpture 3 History & Heritage - €25,000
Sculpture 4 Skygazer - €45,000

Responding creatively to the public space, the history, story and unique themes associated with Mote Park. 
Each sculpture were requested to –

• ‘Be Unique’ - inspired by and designed based on the unique characteristics and themes of Mote Park
• ‘Engage the Senses’ - incorporate a sensory experience where possible
• ‘Be Appropriate to Site’ – designed and constructed using materials in keeping with the woodland environment (e.g. wood) and historic demesne setting (e.g. stone).

Commissions:

BIG SKYGAZER

By Cathal McCarthy

A 13-metre-long wooden curved bench sculpture created by Mayo artist Cathal McCarthy, in collaboration with designer Michael McLaughlin. It is crafted from sustainably sourced Irish Douglas Fir timber. A one-piece curved seating arrangement designed to allow visitors to face each other, lie back or look up at the sky and bathe in the forest. With specially designed notches cut out for wheelchairs it is fully accessible and inclusive.

Materials: Irish Douglas Fir and stainless steel

Images above by Brian Morrison 

RTÉ.IE - 'Big Skygazer' sculpture unveiled in Mote Park Updated / Friday, 6 Jun 2025

MAYOlive - Mayo man’s artwork to be officially unveiled in Roscommon / 03 Jun 2025

The Woodlands and Woodland Management

A cluster of thematically interconnected pieces reflecting the theme of woodland and woodland management by artists Sander & Sander.

THE SEED

A large hand holding a pinecone in its palm symbolic of human care and sustainable management of the woodlands and protection of wildlife.

Materials: Jesmonite (cast stone) and pinecone made of oak.

Images above by Brian Morrison 

THE READING STONES

A cluster of 2 boulder halves with nature inspired poems (in English and Irish translations) engraved on mounted plaques. One of the etymologies of mote is 'meeting place'. The Reading Stones provide an interactive meeting places for relaxation and contemplation. The circle arrangement represents human settlement and how humans shaped the land. The poems celebrate nature-inspired creativity while the natural boulders provide an interactive sensory experience.

The brass tone colour of the plaques are reminiscent of sunlight leaking through forest leaves with a golden reflection. 

Materials: Stone boulders with engraved aluminium dibond plaques.

Two Images above by Brian Morrison 

Image above: Poetry stones which includes the poem 'Mote Park' by the late Delia Lohan, former resident of the area.

Three images above by RCC / Mary Smyth.

Nature & Biodiversity

A cluster of thematically interconnected pieces that greet the visitor on arrival at Mote Park reflecting the theme of nature and biodiversity by artists Sander & Sander.

FOREST GUARDIAN

A larger than life barn owl to give a whimsical and fantastical first impression to visitors of Mote Park.

Materials: Natural boulder and Jesmonite (fibre cast stone).

Image credit above Mary Smyth/RCC

Image above: Outscape 

SKY MIRROR

The Sky Mirror is covered with engravings of creatures of the forest. With an angled top it provides a reflection of nature for the visitor, reminding people of the home we share with nature, in the hope that it fosters a sense of immersion and connection with the woodland. Located at the ‘Branch Road’ leading down to the Red Squirrel Play Area.

Materials: Vinyl on metal cylinder and polished stainless steel top.  

Image above: Outscape 

History & Heritage

GIANT SPADE

By Vicky Waterstone and Phi Convey.
Bronze cast by Bronze Art Foundry

Inspired by a gigantic object in an every day setting, this piece symbolises the long history of growing and planting in Mote Park.

Images above: Phi Convey

Location of works (coming from main entrance):

Funded through the Department of Rural & Community Development Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2022 as part of the Athleague 'Circle of Life' public park.

'Circle of Life' by Paul Harrison

'Circle of Life' by artist Paul Harrison, captures the history, tradition and future of Athleague.

The 2.4m tall volume tells a story. Each element of the sculpture represents a particular element of Athleague’s rich history and bright future.

The River Suck: is represented by the gently flowing curve of apertures that travel along the edge of the work.
The Mill Water Wheel: is represented by two coral coloured disks. These disks also echo the plan layout of the park.
La Tene Granite boulder: The incorporation of the granite boulder represents the La Tene Stone at Castlestrange.
Ash Timber: The block of solid ASH timer represents ”the clash of the ash” and the rich history, and traditions of Hurling in Athleague.
The Famine walkway: is represented by the linear horizontal void.
The Vertical steel element: represent the backbone of the community as it rises up through the sculpture it connects and unites the various elements.
Textured coloured steel background: represents the gently, undulating surrounding grasslands and farmlands.

This sculpture's playful, abstract style represents a bright, creative future for Athleague.

'Circle of Life' leis an ealaíontóir Paul Harrison.

Suiteáladh i mí Feabhra 2024, arna mhaoiniú trí Scéim Athnuachana Bailte agus Sráidbhailte na Roinne Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail 2022 mar chuid de pháirc phoiblí ‘Circle of Life’ Áth Liag.

Léiríonn ‘Circle of Life’ stair, traidisiún agus todhchaí Áth Liag. Insíonn an imleabhar 2.4m ar airde scéal, agus léiríonn gach gné den dealbh gné ar leith de stair shaibhir agus todhchaí geal Áth Liag.

An tSuca: léirítear í ag cuar na cró atá ag sileadh go réidh a thaistealaíonn feadh imeall na hoibre.
Roth Uisce an Mhuilinn: léirítear é trí dhá dhiosca daite coiréil. Léiríonn na dioscaí seo leagan amach plean na páirce freisin.
Bholláin eibhir La Tène : Léiríonn corprú an bholláin eibhir Cloch La Tène ag Caisleán Stráinse
Adhmad Fuinseoige: Léiríonn an bloc adhmaid fuinseoige soladach “troid na fuinseoige” agus stair shaibhir, agus traidisiúin na hIománaíochta in Áth Liag.
Siúlbhealach an Ghorta: tá sé léirithe ag an bhfolús cothrománach línéar.
An eilimint chruach Ingearach: seasann sé do chnámh droma an phobail agus í ag éirí aníos tríd an dealbh a nascann sé agus a n-aontaíonn sé na heilimintí éagsúla.
Cúlra cruach daite uigeachta: léiríonn sé na tailte féaraigh agus na tailte feirme go réidh, droimneach máguaird.

Léiríonn stíl spraíúil, teibí na deilbhe todhchaí gheal chruthaitheach do Áth Liag.

PRESS STATEMENT JULY 25TH 2025 - ‘Circle of Life’ amenity embodies rich life of Athleague 

Another exciting addition to county Roscommon’s ever-growing number of public art works was launched recently by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary T.D.

The Athleague Circle of Life public park is one of the newest rural development projects which was recently unveiled by Minister Calleary. Part of this project included a beautiful site-specific public artwork created by Dublin artist Paul Harrison.

Image left: Artist Paul Harrison with Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD. at the opening of the Circle of Life Public Park in Athleague 2025.

'Circle of Life' is a 2.4m tall artwork that captures the rich history and tradition of Athleague, while the sculpture's overall playful and abstract style characterises a bright, creative future for the thriving South Roscommon village.

Mr. Harrison is fine art artist working in sculpture and surface reliefs. His abstract forms are driven by the conversion of data into surface areas, volumes, and shapes. Responding to the village and community, each component of the sculpture represents a particular element of Athleague’s story.

Among the elements featured are the local Mill Water Wheel represented by two coral-coloured disks. These disks also echo the plan layout of the park. The River Suck which drains the village is represented by the gently flowing curve of apertures that travel along the edge of the work.

A block of solid Ash Timber featured in the sculpture represents ‘the clash of the ash’ and the rich history and traditions of the sport of Hurling in Athleague.

Further features of this exciting new sculpture include the incorporation of the granite boulder representing the La Tène Stone at Castlestrange while the textured coloured steel background represents the gently, undulating surrounding grasslands and farmlands.

The Vertical steel element, representing the backbone of the community, rises up through the sculpture and connects and unites the various elements while the Famine walkway, synonymous with Athleague village, is represented by the linear horizontal void.

“The community of Athleague is thrilled with our 'Circle of Life' sculpture by artist Paul Harrison. Paul perfectly captured us as a community as we continue to move forward in a creative way, but yet always remember to look back and remember our local heritage.” said local resident Ann Conneally.

“The piece embodies our love for our River Suck with its iconic mill wheel as well as our local landscape and heritage sites. It also incorporates our love of hurling, all in a colourful and fun way. The school children of Athleague especially love to meet at the ‘Red Dot’ and remember the ‘fun artist man’ who came down to meet them and include them in the process!” described Ms. Conneally.

“It is so valuable for the community to meet the artist’s that have created the artwork they see and pass every day. The pupils got to ask Paul all their questions about making the work, design process and about working as a sculptor,” remarked Mary Smyth, Roscommon County Council Public Art and Engagement Coordinator.

In February 2025, Mr. Harrison revisited the area and held ‘Meet the Artist’ sessions with third and sixth class pupils from Athleague National School. A selection of Paul’s work can be viewed on www.paulharrisonartist.com.

The park is set to become a focal point of the historic village of Athleague and is sure to attract many visitors to coincide with the End of Summer Festival in the village which takes place later next month.

“Paul’s proposal so clearly connected and referenced many aspects important in Athleague, the Arts Office of Roscommon County Council is delighted that this eye-catching new feature is now officially launched as part of the beautiful new park,” Ms. Smyth concluded.

Funded under Ballyleague Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2022 - improving amenities around the River Shannon in Ballyleague. 

This scheme included the development of two ‘Destination/Contemplation Nodes’ along the River Shannon (North of the amenity by the Lough Ree Access for All Boathouse and the southern end of the amenity where the river bends) to strengthen the relationship between the landscapes either side of the N63 to create a more cohesive and connected landscape. The nodes aim to play an important role in creating a place of destination, providing opportunities to engage with the river, places to meet, dwell and relax, and also opportunities to engage with art and the town’s heritage.

‘Led by Nature’ by Redmond Herrity

Led by Nature | Inspioráid ón Dúlra

Led by Nature, by sculptor Redmond Herrity is a 2.5m high pencil with a black marble point made from Irish limestone carved with designs inspired and identified at workshops with local children from Ballyleague National School and local adults, held on Culture Night 2022.

Tá Inspioráid on Dulra leis an dealbhóir Redmond Herrity ina cholún 2.5m ar aired peann luaidhe le pointe marmair dubh déanta as d'aolchloch na hÉireann snoite le dearaí spreagtha agus aitheanta ag ceardlanna le páistí áitiúla ó Scoil Náisiúnta Bhéal Átha Liag agus ó dhaoine fásta áitiúla, a tionóladh ar Oíche Chultúir 2022.

'Led by Nature' by artist Redmond Herrity. Image credit: Lee Williamson of Shuttermaniac Productions.

'Portal' by Conleth Gent

Portal | Radharc Frámaithe

Portal, by sculptor Conleth Gent is a windowed portal with carved figures made from locally sourced bog oak. It represents the community — past, present, and future — backed by the scenic beauty of Lough Ree. The iron bulldozer sprocket, sourced from Bord Na Móna, reflects the local industrial heritage.

Radharc Frámaithe, leis an dealbhóir Conleth Gent is tairseach fuinneoige é le figiúirí snoite déanta as dair phortaigh a fhaightear go háitiúil. Déanann sé ionadaíocht ar an bpobal – san am a chuaigh thart, san am i láthair agus sa todhchaí – le tacaíocht ó áilleacht sárscéimhe Loch Rí. Léiríonn an sproicéad ollscartaire iarainn, a fuarthas ó Bhord na Móna, an oidhreacht thionsclaíoch áitiúil.

'Portal' by artist Conleth Gent. Image credit: Lee Williamson of Shuttermaniac Productions.

Commissioned by Roscommon County Council Arts Office in 2022. Funded under the Department of Rural & Community Development, Knockcroghery Tidy Towns Committee, Project Knockcroghery Committee and Roscommon County Council under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2020. The scheme provided a platform for the artists to respond creatively to the history, heritage and community of Knockcroghery, focusing on the village identity providing opportunities for dialogue and participation with the community.

'The Resilience of Knockcroghery and its People' by ADW from Waterford Walls

A key theme of the mural on the gable of former Widow Pat’s pub is The Resilience of Knockcroghery and its People.

The postage stamp highlights June 21, 1921 when the Black & Tans arrived in the early hours and burned the entire village. One of the only buildings left standing was due to the resilience of its proprietor Mrs. Mary "The Widow" Murray. Gathering her children, she refused to move until one of the officers took pity and ordered his men to leave.

Mary’s son 'The Widow Pat’, a local character and storyteller later took over this pub. He smokes a pipe with original pub signage visible through the smoke, a link to the past and the building's history and a nod to the clay pipe industry of the area.

Swifts fly through the piece as two nest sites, now scarce, were identified in the building next door in 2020.

“Were you ever below on the side of Knockcroghery..." is the opening line of a comic ballad written by Peadar Kearney.

‘Dámhsa na Lasracha’ by Alison MacCormaic

Damhsa na Lasracha (Dance of the Flames) commemorates the burning of the village. ‘Flame calligraphies’, drawn from life were inspired by Japanese drawings. The surface is covered with smalti, handmade mosaic tesserae from Mexico, with exquisite colour changes and unusual surface textures it reflects light to sparkle and flicker.

'Damhsa na Lasracha' by artist Alison MacCormaic. Image credit: Alison MacCormaic.

Close ups of 'Damhsa na Lasracha' by artist Alison MacCormaic. Image credit: Alison MacCormaic.

'About Knockcroghery' illustrated signage by Paul Francis

Hand-painted illustrated signage showcasing the History of Knockcroghery and key figures of the village.

Bloom ¦ The Art Project

Around 60 children from St Marys NS took part in spray-painting workshops with Bloom ¦ The Art Project from Waterford Walls inspiring imagery for electric boxes throughout the village.

The Boyle Sculpture Trail is a Programme of Public Art commissioned by Roscommon Arts Office in 2022.

Funded under the Fáilte Ireland Developed and Emerging Destination Towns Capital Investment Programme for the Cultural Quarter of Boyle, it provides a link between King House and the Pleasure Grounds. The scheme provided a platform for artists to respond creatively to the public space, to the history, story and community of Boyle, and to provide opportunities for dialogue and participation with the community.

Resonate by Martin Heron

Produced with 23 strips of mild steel, this is a celebratory artwork, made in response to the Steinway Grand Piano in King House. The sculptural shell-like shape echoes a keyboard which has evolved into a carapace-like structure.

Definition - Resonator: An apparatus that increases the resonance of a sound, especially a hollow part of a musical instrument.

'Resonator' by artist Martin Heron. Image credit: Martin Heron.

Post Modern Posts West by Conleth Gent

With five equally spaced wooden posts, pointing toward King House, this piece reflects wooden boat wrecks and the ribs often found around our coast representing the past, and facing east-west the travel departure of so many.

'Post Modern Posts West' by artist Conleth Gent. Image credit: Mary Smyth

An Bhúill by Susan Mannion

This enamel panel represents one of the larger scale enamel artworks in the world.

The River Boyle, An Bhúill, flows from Lough Gara, through the town of Boyle and into Lough Key. The river is named after a goddess, who was transformed into the stream by the Mórrígain after a fierce fight. An Bhúill, the spirit of the water goddess of this river, is represented as a line of energy depicted in gold leaf across a blue enamel background, linking the origins of the name of the river and the name of the town.

Made in steel and coated in enamel powder and gold leaf, the artwork is then fired in a large kiln at 860 degrees Celsius so that the powdered enamel liquifies and forms a skin of glass across the steel panels surface.

'An Bhúill' by artist Susan Mannion. Image credit: Mary Smyth.

Chaosmos by Graham Reid

'Chaosmos' by artist Graham Reid. Image 1 credit: Mary Smyth, Image 2 credit: Graham Reid.

Chaosmos represents the world viewed as a fusion of order and disorder. Originally coined by James Joyce as a blend of chaos + cosmos in Finnegans Wake, published in 1939. This stainless steel piece with tensioned cables and suspended polished orbs resonates with the landscape - reminiscent of dew drops on a spider’s web, of rain and of bubbles in the river. The playful interactive nature of the piece through the mirror polish of the orbs reflects the landscape and the viewer, responding to the nearby playground.

'Chaosmos' by artist Graham Reid. Image 3 credit: Mary Smyth.

The River King by Barra Cassidy

Constructed in reinforced white concrete with a smooth, polished finish, this sculpture celebrates the wildlife of the Boyle River. The otter is a representation of the wildlife in a healthy river and has been listed as belonging to the natural biodiversity in Boyle. The artist describes the otter as King in its environment.

LOUGHNANEANE PARK, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO ROSCOMMON, IRELAND, 2025.

ART IN THE OPEN: EXPLORE ROSCOMMON THROUGH PUBLIC ART

Culture Night Trail of Roscommon’s creative footprint, a park and town tour
celebrating Artists, Place and Nature.

Join a curated route featuring a collection of innovative temporary and permanent public artworks. Begin at Áras an Chontae, with the exhibition launch of Honor FitzGerald’s “See, Saw – A Journey Through Nature” a painting collection that invites viewers into the quiet world of the garden.

Continue reflecting on our relationship with the natural word in the grassy surroundings of Loughnaneane Park. A special limited-edition event by up-and-coming local artists, discover four new interactive installations which animate, respond and illuminate the park space. They bring a fresh perspective to the landscape and showcase the evolving artistic voice of the next generation. The guided trail includes an opportunity to Meet the Artists; Christina Carty, Helen Duncan, Maria Mollohan and Nickie Harrington, and hear directly about their concepts. These temporary artworks will be in situ in the park for the WEEKEND ONLY.

Continue into the town centre and roam through Roscommon Town’s permanent installations in the Living Laneways series. Continuing the connection with nature, appreciate our buzzing pollinators through the colourful corridor of The Bee Lane by Graham Reid. From there, make your way to the town’s centre to encounter a landmark bronze sculpture, the vivid blue twine Held Together by Simon Carmen and Dr. Helen Sharp. An eye-catching, photo opportunity that celebrates Roscommon’s rural and creative identity. Following the footsteps of generations before, connect with place at the Mosaic Laneway by Chris Judge and Triskell Designs which celebrates local history, characters and Roscommon’s mosaic tradition and industry. We end our journey at the Poetry Laneway, curated by poet Dani Gill, where site-specific poetry lights the laneway walls and echoes the immense history of the lane. Carry on in your Culture Night tour with our vast evening programme of events.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local rediscovering the town, this unique trial offers a FREE opportunity to find out more about Roscommon’s Public Art. Perfect for families, art and nature lovers, and explorers of all ages.

Culture Night Temporary Public Art Commissions - Meet the Artists:

Roscommon Arts Centre, 2025.

Roscommon Arts & Culture Office were delighted to hold an artist talk on Contemporary Public Art Practice in Roscommon Arts Centre on Tuesday June 3rd 2025. Guest speakers included Roscommon-based public art artist Martin Heron, independent curator and arts consultant Ruairí Ó Cuív (previously public art manager in Dublin City Council) and visual and socially-engaged artist Rhona Byrne.

Everyone was welcomed in by Mary Smyth, Public Art and Engagement Coordinator with Roscommon County Council, who presented information on the government scheme Per Cent for art. It was emphasised that public art can include any art-form. She shared an array of examples of recent public art projects around Roscommon, highlighted the scheme in which they were funded, noted RCC’s approach to engage with different art disciplines and to involve local communities where appropriate (engaging a range of ages and groups). Such as through the assessment or brief process, in a commission (if proposed by an artist) or after install through dissemination and ‘meet the artist’ events or workshops. She also outlined current and upcoming opportunities for artists, which includes a current Culture Night call out for emerging Roscommon-based or born artist to propose temporary public art for Loughnaneane Park.

Martin chronologically shared his artistic practice in three stages; his art influences growing up, career to date through the UK, France and moving to Roscommon, and described the location-led and socially engaged interests which emerge within his work now. He also shared his experiences of applying and interviewing for commissions. 

He emphasised the importance of researching and developing artwork which connects with the local people that are to live with the work, and communicating the story of the work to locals. He has been developing workshops in Boyle which continue to integrate with the community his recent sculpture Resonator (installed in the pleasure grounds of King House) playing on the concept and shell-like shape of the piece.

Ruairí explained the artist brief. He shared examples of commissioner's considerations behind a brief, differences in brief tones and approaches from quite specific to more open which may allow an artist more scope to respond. He considered the public versus community engagement trend emerging in current briefs.

He described the process of selection and the assessment, the call and response from brief  - to artist -  to panel; and choosing locations for works. Sharing examples of brief criteria and artist responses, such as Luke Kelly by Vera Klute (2019) and artist Theresa Nanigian's Travelogue (2012), a temporary public artwork which celebrated the human drama which is played out every day on public transport system Dublin. Nanigian embarked on a series of “residencies” across all travel service providers collecting stories. Participants' texts were then installed as large posters posted across all forms of public transport in Dublin in May 2012.

He spoke to the ongoing relationship between the artist and the commissioner during the project delivery, referring to his work as public art manager working with Rhona Byrne on her recent Liffey Love commissioned by Dublin City Council in 2023 with the support of Dublin Dockland. 

This led on to Rhona’s talk, where she shared further details of her project Restless: Liffey Love, a public art project that collects waste discarded in the River Liffey quaysides and combines this waste into a material to create new forms, like two love seat sculptures ‘Restless’ a new destination in the city. She described other aspects of a commission, such as the afterlife of the work - seeing the public engage and use it, and she spoke of the promotional journey to bring awareness of the project and its environmental and harvesting waste themes and situate the piece in the location for public use. A short documentary video showcased the amount of work involved, the stakeholders engaged (for example operators of the Liffey Sweeper, industrial designers, engineer and fabricator with expertise in design, waste management, and engineer and material production) in order to collect the discarded materials from the Liffey; harvest and shred the waste and make it into a workable material before the design and construction.

She also shared other aspects of her practice, which includes working with other disciplines (e.g. architects and engineers) and being the artist representative and voice in these larger project meetings. As her role would have been for the Roscommon Town Main Street & Market Square Public Realm Project, which includes the Living Laneways public art programme.

A short panel Q & A raised questions such as: where to source information on upcoming commissions, process of funding allocation to the write up of a brief, importance of artist attribution on or near completed works, detail on both artist’s practices, panel considerations during an assessment, and working with potential collaborators / other artists in a project. A local community member thanked the artists saying it was a privilege to meet the artists behind some of the excellent works that are now in Roscommon. Rhona McGrath (Arts Officer RCC) thanked the panel and audience, and the session ended with informal chats over lunch in the Foyer.

Sculpture on the Square 'Held Together' installed on Roscommon Town Square

7th July 2025.

Artists Simon Carmen and Dr Helen Sharp, along with help from Colin O'Tool, installed their artwork Held Together on the square in Roscommon last Saturday!

Roscommon Town’s newly redeveloped Market Square welcomed a new addition to its civic landscape. with the unveiling of Held Together, a large-scale bronze sculpture by acclaimed artists Simon Carman and Dr. Helen Sharp. The work will be officially launched at a later date.

Inspired by a simple coil of baling twine, Held Together / Á Choimeád le Chéile is a playful tribute to the region’s agricultural heritage. Cast in bronze and hand-finished with layers of a vibrant blue patina, the sculpture now stands proudly in the heart of the town, offering a fresh perspective on the everyday objects that bind rural life. 

Read more about the work under section The Living Laneways Programme!

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Temporary Public Art Culture Night Commission for EMERGING Artists

LOUGHNANEANE PARK, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO ROSCOMMON, IRELAND.

Roscommon County Council Arts Office now invites proposals which respond creatively to the public space around the Amphitheatre in Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon Town. The commission intends to provide opportunities for dialogue and inspire the local community in relation to Public Art.

We invite original submissions from Roscommon based / born emerging public art artists for the design and execution of:

4 x Temporary Artworks
Commission budget per artwork: €2,000

This is an open call for artists to propose temporary Public Art, in any art-form, that is original, creates public dialogue and evokes curiosity, as part of a temporary public art trail on the 20th edition of Culture Night, on Friday 19 September 2025.

Commission call out opens - Monday 12th May 2025.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS - Monday 23th June 5PM

Please see artist brief for more information:
Temporary-Public-Art-call-out_Loughnaneane-Park-Roscommon_Culture-Night-2025

For submission and queries contact Mary Smyth on: msmyth@roscommoncoco.ie.
Deadline for queries is Friday 13th June 2025.

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Contemporary Public Art Practice - Artist Talk @ Roscommon Arts Centre

Time: 11AM – 1PM. With tea, coffee and sandwiches at 1pm.
Date: TUESDAY, 03 JUNE 2025
Registration Required. Spaces first come, first served. Booking via Roscommon Arts Centre’s website.

Are you curious about Public Art?
Have you wondered about the process?

Roscommon Arts & Culture Office invites artists to join a session on CONTEMPORARY PUBLIC ART PRACTICE. 

• Hear from contemporary and experienced artists working with Public Art in their practice in Roscommon, Ireland and abroad.
• Hear from commissioners; considerations in briefs, experiences and examples of successful previous projects.
• Hear about upcoming opportunities for Public Art in County Roscommon.

Speakers:

Rhona Byrne - Visual & socially engaged artist. Worked with GKMP Architects on the Roscommon Town Main Street & Market Square Public Realm Project. Devised the concept for Roscommon’s Living Laneways public art programme.
Ruairí Ó Cuív - Independent curator & arts consultant specialising in public art. Previously Public Art Manager, Dublin City Council.
Martin Heron - Roscommon-based, public art artist from Northern Ireland. Interested in social engagement and & location-led work. Previously commissioned as part of the Boyle Sculpture Trail 2022.

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09.05.25 - Launch of the Bee Lane!

On behalf of the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice, we would like to invite you all to the Launch of the Bee Lane at Allée De Chartrettes, the laneway which connects The Square in Roscommon Town to the county council car park.

Time & Date: 11am, Friday 9th May.

Location: Function room, Gleeson’s Restaurant, Roscommon Town.

Tea & Coffee with Artist Talk by Graham Reid, & walk of the lane.

A Bee’s Eye View of a Wild­flower Meadow is a series of works along this busy laneway by artist Graham Reid, that transforms the space into a playful, imaginative and contemporary experience. Inspired by the unique way bees see the world in ultraviolet, these images invite you to pause, explore and enjoy a brief journey into the magical, unseen world of pollinators.

Graham Reid grew up in South Africa, studying architecture and sculptural glass at Massachusetts College of Art. He then returned to his ancestral roots in Ireland, where he has been commissioned and widely exhibited. Including a stainless steel sculpture 'Chaosmos' as part of the Boyle Sculpture Trail in 2022.

The Bee Lane at Allée de Chartrettes was funded under the Roscommon Creative Ireland Programme 2024/2025. It is part of a larger public art programme called ‘Living Laneways’ in Roscommon Town.

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27.01.25 - Call out open for Permanent Sculpture in Strokestown

New public art opportunity for a Permanent Artwork for Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. 

Commission budget: €55,000, including VAT. Further details are in the below pdf. in Related Documents.

Opens Monday 27th January 2025.
DEADLINE FOR STAGE 1 SUBMISSIONS: Monday 7th April 5PM.

For queries and submission email Mary on msmyth@roscommoncoco.ie or artsofficer@roscommoncoco.ie

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Planning is in progress on a third living laneways public art commission! - Oct 2024

Roscommon County Council invited submissions by artists on our Roscommon Public Art Panel for a
new Creative Laneway for Alleé De Chartrettes as part of the Living Laneways Programme. 

Artist Graham Reid has been successful with his wall installation submission titled:
"A Bee's eye view of a meadow landscape".

‘Living Laneways’ is an innovative public art programme where artists respond creatively to the public laneways of Roscommon Town and to the history, story and community. Existing commissions are a Poetry Laneway on Chapel Lane, and a Mosaic Laneway (in-process) on Hynes Way.

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Circle of Life sculpture by Paul Harrison installed in Athleague! - February 2024

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April 2024 - Launch of the Living Laneways Public Art Programme: Poetry Laneway

PRESS RELEASE: INVITATION TO THE POETRY LANEWAY LAUNCH, CHAPEL LANE, ROSCOMMON

A new Poetry Laneway will be launched next week, as part of the larger public art programme titled ‘Living Laneways’, an innovative laneway trail where artists can respond creatively to public laneways in Roscommon Town and to its history, story and community. Supported by Roscommon County Council, the Poetry Laneway features the work of three contemporary poets, Jane Clarke, Louise G. Cole and Dani Gill. Musician and composer Phil Robson has collaborated with the writers, to present a custom sound piece for each of the poems.

The poetry will be presented in lightboxes in Chapel Lane, an important historic laneway in Roscommon town with a special event on National Poetry Day 2024 Thursday 25th April.  The artists involved will launch the laneway with an in person event at 3pm. The poets will introduce and read their poetry and attendees can scan a QR code in each lightbox, that will lead to the music composition created by Phil Robson.

The laneway enhancements form the final elements of Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project, & are funded through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as part of Project Ireland 2040 to include match funding from Roscommon County Council. Roscommon County Council's Regeneration team worked with GKMP Architects, artist Rhona Byrne (who developed the concept of a Living Laneways programme) and multidisciplinary team appointed to implement the overall Innovative Architectural and Artistically Influenced Covered Civic Space in Roscommon Town Centre.

The aim of these work is to help create a town centre that functions as a viable, vibrant and attractive location, as well as being the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community.  It is  expected that this further development will boost the local economy drawing further footfall to the town centre, through improving access and making the town more connected. All are welcome.

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January 2024 - New Public Art opportunities open for submissions at Mote Park, Roscommon.

Roscommon County Council in partnership with Outscape now invite artists to submit proposals for one or more commissions under this project and to respond creatively to the public space, the history, story and unique themes associated with Mote Park. 

MOTE PARK SCULPTURES, ROSCOMMON, IRELAND. 2-STAGE OPEN COMPETITION - PUBLIC ART COMMISSION
Deadline for Stage 1 Submissions: 3pm on Friday 19th February 2024

Mote-Park-Sculptures---Open-Call-Stage-1-Artists-Brief.pdf (size 7.2 MB)

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November 2023 - Living Laneways Update

Thursday (23rd November 2023) join artist CHRIS JUDGE of the Living Laneways Public Art Programme.

Chris is designing a mosaic laneway in Roscommon Town and wants to hear from the locality about Roscommon, living in Roscommon and stories of the area.

Join either of two sessions: 4-5pm and 6.30-7.30pm. 

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August 2023 - Living Laneways Public Art Opportunities in Roscommon Town

A number of Public Art Opportunities for Roscommon town open! 

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September 2023 - Knockcroghery Public Artworks Launch

On Culture Night (22nd September 2023) we held the launch of
the Knockcroghery Public Art Commissions from 6 - 7pm at Knockcroghery Hall!

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Boyle Destination Town - Public Art Commission 2022 - Sculpture Trail

Roscommon County Council invites submissions from artists for one sculptural artwork as part of a Sculpture Trail. This Programme of Public Art Commissions is funded under Fáilte Ireland’sDeveloped and Emerging Destination Towns Capital Investment Programme. The scheme will provide a platform for artists to respond creatively to public space, to the history, story and community of Boyle, in particular the Cultural Quarter of Boyle, the location of King House and the Pleasure Grounds. The commissions are also intended to provide opportunities for dialogue and participation with the local community. Representatives of various groups in the town will be involved in selecting the artworks.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION 4pm, Tuesday 31st May 2022

For full details click here: Boyle Sculpture Trail – Public Art Commission – Artist Call