Launch: FURZE – Fuel, Fodder, Thatch, Tools, Toys / Shane Finan

This event is part of the site-specific work, FURZE – Fuel, Fodder, Thatch, Tools, Toys / Shane Finan

FURZE: Fuel, Fodder, Thatch, Tools, Toys is a new multiform, site-specific work conceived by Shane Finan encompassing new art works, object making, research, audience engagement and workshops .

Housed in a specially constructed ‘pavilion’ made of furze* boughs and located at Knockree Hotel in Wicklow’s Uplands, the project invites a re-examination of the place of this enduring plant in our landscape.

Join us on Friday 3 July from 6-8pm for the opening for this immersive artwork where Finan will introduce the work, and Lorna Kelly of Wicklow Uplands Council will discuss its role in preserving our county's remarkable environment.Please note that parking space is limited at Knockree Hostel.

6-7pm Furze: from the pages of a book - Project introduction and tour with Shane Finan

7-7.30pm Shared Ground: Collaboration, Culture and Care in the Dublin & Wicklow Uplands – Talk by Lorna Kelly, Co-ordinator, Wicklow Uplands Council

Please note that parking space is limited at Knockree Hostel.

A shuttle bus is available leaving from Mermaid at 5.20pm to the event. The bus is €5 per person, and must be booked in advance. CLICK HERE to book

The bus will be available from Mermaid Arts Centre, leaving at 5.20pm. It will leave Knockree for the return journey to Bray at 8pm. There is free parking available in the underground car park at Mermaid from 5pm. To enter car park, keep right after turning into the Civic Centre. The entrance is on the left. 

More about this project:

Furze has long held a particular place of importance in Irish culture. From its use as a protective ward against supernatural mischief makers, as fuel for ritual fires, a material for making tools, and even as fodder for livestock and wattling for thatch roofs, its significance provides the basis for this ambitious new work.

Based at the Furze Pavilion over the weekend of 3-5th July, Finan will share his research into the plant and its importance in Ireland’s rural heritage. He and special guests will facilitate workshops, display new artwork, and lead talks and tours focused on the use of Furze in rural traditions, intangible cultural heritage and craft.

A limited edition pamphlet features an essay by Finan and will be available during the project weekend at the FURZE pavilion.With thanks to Wicklow Arts Office, Wicklow Uplands Council, An Óige and Shane’s many collaborators.*Furze has many names and is also know as gorse, whins and aiteann (as gaeilge).