NORMANS RETURN TO CARRIG ON BANNOW IN DRAMATIC FASHION
THE gable wall of the Community Hall in Carrig on Bannow has been transformed thanks to a mural depicting the first Norman landing in May 1169 at nearby Bannow.
The brainchild of District Manager, Nóirín Cummins, and funded from Creative Ireland Jobs Stimulus, this dramatic work was undertaken by renowned artist Magda Karol.
The mural highlights a strong willed Norman Knight accompanied by a number of the other 30 knights in the background, with the Fitzstephen crest of their leader featuring prominently.
Discussing her work, Magda said she understood how important the local history was to the people in the area.
‘It was important to visually present the image of the Normans who lived in this area in very old times. It is a form of non-verbal information about a past history,’ Magda said.
‘While painting this wall, I met many local residents for whom this was familiar. They told me stories and pointed out the places where the Normans had settled. I realised that this historical aspect was part of the local identity.’
And Magda was keen to ensure the mural will stay within the hearts of those who see it every day.
‘Knowing that the mural will be exactly in the same place, around the people living there, forever, is a big deal. When I’m leaving I’m happy with it but they are staying there and seeing it every day.’
Thankfully the response to her work has been hugely positive.
‘Knowing how much it means to the local people feels great,’ Magda says. ‘I had great feedback while I was there, people stopping and engaged with me.
‘ Experiencing the kindness of the people and their open hearts was a huge pleasure. So thank you for this experience and I hope the mural will always evoke positive emotions.’
And Nóirín confirmed that the mural was already proving popular with one group of people in the community.
‘Reaction to the mural in the village has been universally positive, with the school children of the nearby primary school being particularly delighted,’ she said.