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IHF Seeds Project Creates Glass Leaves in Memory of Loved Ones

glass workshop

We are so proud of this beautiful project at Glasshammer Studios in Rhode, Co. Offaly, where people who lost loved ones during the pandemic were invited to design glass leaves in their honour – one of our Seeds Grants projects.

Glass artist Michelle O’Donnell invited local people who have lost loved ones during the pandemic to come together to Glasshammer studios and make glass leaves in their memory. Michelle came up with the idea because she felt people were going through loss on their own. A group of 15 people from the area took part in the workshop yesterday, where they designed their own enamel and glass leaves, inspired by their loss.

Among the group was Margaret Burke, who came to remember her great friend Sylvia Burke, saying: 

“She died during the Covid and it was very difficult. She was in hospital for three weeks and we weren’t allowed to visit her. It has had a terrible effect on all of us.”

For many people like Margaret, the pandemic and the restrictions that were introduced have changed the process of loss and grief. Margaret added:

“It has been a very tough time. I don’t know how you come to terms with things like this, when you can’t see somebody. If you could only see them for 5 minutes a day it would’ve made all the difference.”

The enamel leaves will be fused in a gas-fired kiln and later curved into a shape by Michelle. Next Sunday December 19th, the group will come together to hang them on a remembrance tree.

This is one of our 27 Seeds creative projects exploring death and loss through art. Projects like this are points of contact and connection that can help people to navigate the way forward. 
With thanks to Creative Ireland for their support.

The workshop was featured on RTE News Dec 12th 2021.

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