The seventeenth edition of Culture Night took place at the end of September and contained an exciting programme of events.
The theme for Culture Night was ‘One Night for All-Oíche Dár Saol’.
It was the brainchild of the Arts Council and presented locally by Laois County Council Arts Office.
Culture Night is a national moment, celebrating culture, creativity and the arts and seeks to actively promote the belief that this rich and varied culture is alive, treasured and nurtured in people’s lives, today and every day.
Laois had a broad spectrum of events to enliven the county on the night of September 23.
A highlight of the evening was the official launch of ‘Protectour’ by Artist James Hayes.
The polished concrete & stainless steel sculpture references the footprint of the historic Old Fort, Portlaoise and the celebratory nature of sport and participation to mark the nearby O’Moore Park GAA grounds.
The seven smaller concrete forms represent the seven septs or clans of Laois; O’Devoy (O’Deevy), O’Doran, O’Dowling, McEvoy, O’Kelly, O’Lalor and O’Moore. Representatives of the seven clans are invited to come along for this event.
The large portal and the smaller forms represent a historic transfer of power in Laois. This artwork was commissioned under Open Competition by Laois County Council and funded by the Per Cent for Art scheme.
Photographer Michael Scully was around the county on the night and captured some great pictures.
Check them out below:
Families enjoying International Cuisine at Dunamaise Arts Centre on Culture Night. Photo: Michael Scully – no reproduction fee.
Tommy Fitzharris ( flute) and Donal Mc Cague ( Fiddle ) playing
Derry and Ivor Townsend and Aga Wypychowska
Ruta Maciuliene, Agota, Barbora, Arunas and Kristina Stankevicius, enjoying the International Cuisine event
Leah, Linda and Ella Meredith Scully, Niall Scully and Breda Meredith
Allen Scully ( Fado Faces Artist ) sketches counciller John Joe Fennelly
