Laois community gathers for inspiring winter solstice art event

Laois artists created a spectacle for the community with an original multi-media performance and art installation at Donaghmore Workhouse in Rathdowney this winter solstice.

Visual artist Marie Brett collaborated with the renowned Mick Creagh and Ciara Julia Ryan as well as many other Rathdowney townspeople to deliver what was a very successful event organised to coincide with the winter solstice on Sunday, 21 December. 

'The Field of Dreams' was an evocative and candle lit experience which featured singing, story-telling, gramophone music and poetry.  

Maura Delaney and Cllr Barry Walsh, Cathaoirleach Laois County Council, at 'The Field of Dreams' event (Photo by Clodagh Piper).

Visitors were guided through several rooms inside the Donaghmore Workhouse dormitories and Master's Quarters, with each room hosting a different creative experience, sound, smell, and sight.

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One of the key figures behind the event, visual artist Marie Brett is Artist in Residence for Rathdowney and Errill and has been awarded a Public Art Commission by Laois County Council Arts Office.

As part of her artist residency, Marie has been researching Rathdowney and Errill’s history, folklore, happenings and stories, as well as unusual sites.

Commenting on the event, Marie said: "In a time of Christmas business, it feels valuable to create an artwork that gives us space to slow for a moment and to reflect on the darkest part of the year. And too to think about what lies ahead."

'The Field of Dreams' is the first in a series of special community focused events, with more events planned for springtime in 2026.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme