Lots to see and do on West Kerry night for culture vultures

EVER wonder what artists think about other artists’ work. You can find out at one of the many free events taking place in West Kerry during Culture Night on this Friday, September 22, from 5-11pm.

On the night, four venues in Dingle and Annascaul will give a taste of the wealth of culture that’s to be found in West Kerry, which has become a haven for artists of all hues in recent years.

Taking the venues in order of their altitude above sea level, poet Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill will recite some of her acclaimed work at an initimate candlelit cúirt filíochta in the upper garden in An Diseart at 9pm. Should the weather prove inclement, the event will be moved indoors. Meanwhile, Eoin Duignan’s Lumina will be playing in the Díseart chapel which features the Harry Clarke windows that inspired the music. Also in An Díseart, the environmental film “The Uncountable Laughter of the Sea” featuring Mons. Pádraig Ó Fiannachta will be screened throughout the evening in the late monsignor’s living room. And, in a repeat of what was a very popular event last year, people are invited to come and share stories in the Nano Nagle room in An Díseart at 8pm. Further details from 066-9152476.

On the far side of the Mall River, An Lab in the former CBS will show the breathtaking short film Tinfeadh by Lios Póil-based feltmaker Úna Ní Shé. Felt provides the theme for this atmospheric 10 minute film, which was shot in Muckross Abbey, Killarney.

The dance piece An Moladh/The Proposal, guided by dancer in residence Maria Svensson and performed by local people, will be performed in An Lab at 6.30pm

Following on from this at 8pm local artists, Liam O’Neill, Tomás Ó Cíobháin, Deirdre Nic Ginneá, Áine Ní Chíobháin, Zoe Uí Fhaoláin and Linda Ní hAiniféin will participate in a conversation about artworks. Each artist will bring along a piece of art and explain why they are particularly attracted to it, with Bean a’ tí Brenda Ní Shuilleabhain keeping the conversation flowing. Further details from 087 3315664

Down close to sea level on the Spa Road, artist Áine Ní Chiobháin will present a combination of live music and live art with music workshops, vocals, song, live art, sketching and gigs. People are invited to join in on this one and the resulting art will be exhibited in the pub on the same night. Call to Nellie Fred’s at 7pm to pick up a sketch pack and receive a demo on experimental drawing. Further details from Áine on 086 1096518.

Over in Annascaul, from 5pm - 8pm, Joan, Marie Kennedy and guests have a welcome on the mat for all who would like to join in an evening of music, art and song at an Café Nua. Fun and art are the order of the evening, with workshops for adults and children as well as an exhibition of local art. Further details from 086 8708541