umha aois 2015

For its 20 years' anniversary, Umha Aois will contribute to the visual art strand of the Skibbereen Arts Festival 2015 by hosting a ten-day archaeology and sculpture symposium at Liss Ard Estate, Skibbereen, Co. Cork from Sat. 25th July - Sun. 2nd August 2015. The established group of sculptors and makers will be joined by international artists, archaeologists and researchers to produce bronze sculpture inspired by local archaeology and in response to the Cor-ten steel architecture of the new West Cork Art Centre. The work will explore ancient and new materials, leading to the fabrication of contemporary artwork and exploration of BA, Iron Age and Medieval artefacts.

Umha Aois has developed a unique and sustainable approach to sculpture, using Bronze Age metal working techniques that members have refined over the last twenty years through experimental archaeology research for which the group has gained international acclaim. The use of the stone moulds, lost-wax process, clay moulds and charcoal pit-furnaces will give spectators and participants a fascinating insight in how ancient metalworking - carried out in Ireland 4,000 years ago - can result in both innovative and contemporary art objects as well as authentic replicas. The collaboration promotes exchange of knowledge and dialogue between many disciplines, resulting in developing the new sustainable and creative approaches in sculpture.

The event in the Walled Garden of Liss Ard is open to the public on all days from 10am to 6pm and for night casting after 8pm on Thursday/Friday/Saturday. From Skibbereen, follow signs on the Castletownshend road to Liss Ard Estate. The café and restaurant of Liss Ard are open for afternoon tea and dinner.