Tuam artists shone at Feltmakers Exhibition

Over 400 people attended the opening of Symbols of Ireland, an exhibition by Feltmakers Ireland, at Phoenix Park Visitor Centre last month.

First Lady Sabina Higgins officially launched the event, commending the creativity and skill of the 47 guild members whose felt artworks, primarily made from Irish wool are on display.

As Patron of the Wool in Schools Program, Mrs Higgins highlighted wool’s role as a sustainable material, noting its durability and self-cleaning properties and connected the exhibition's themes with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. She also recommended the exhibition for display at the National Gallery of Ireland.

Three Tuam guild members—Patricia Conroy, Corina Hogan, and Karena Ryan—each presented unique interpretations.

Patricia Conroy created a piece inspired by Brigid, whom she described as “the first strong woman learned about in stories at school”.

Corina Hogan, originally from Dublin, honoured her heritage with a felted artwork of Molly Malone, an iconic figure beloved by Dubliners.

Karena Ryan's artwork, titled Siúl Portaigh/Bog Walk, captured the scents, sounds, and cherished memories of working on the bog.