During the 1997/'98 school
year we were fortunate to receive a grant from THE ARTS COUNCIL which
enabled us to employ an artist under their Artist in Residence Scheme.
Aine Phillips Varley, who was born in Dublin and now lives in Crusheen,
was our Artist in Residence. While Aine was with us she involved all
the various classes in designing and making a mural and a panel of mosaics.
Unveiled by Sile De Velera,
T.D. Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands on the 22
June, '98, the work represents different aspects of a child's life at
school. The mosaics are situated at the entrance to the school and are
made from broken tiles and crockery, mirror and glass. Each child in
the school collected found objects and materials for the panels during
Easter holidays. These collections were then prepared by the artist
for use (i.e. all broken glass slumped in a kiln. Tiles and crockery
broken and sanded etc.)
The three older classes
(4th, 5th, 6th,) then participated
in gluing and grouting the mosaic pieces onto boards which were then
mounted to the wall site. The panels were then secured and plastered.
Alan Grassie provided the expertise when it came to mounting and plastering
the panels.
A 50ft mural was painted
in the playground shelter, also. The entire project took six months
from planning to unveiling and every child in the school had the opportunity
to make his/her mark.
Sponsored
by The Arts Office of Clare County Council in association with Clare
County Council
The jewellery, rings, necklaces,
chokers etc., was made from recycled materials, mainly copper wire.
