'Jewels of the Bog' exhibit launched at Esker Arts Centre

Esker Arts and Offaly County Council hosted the official launch of 'Jewels of the Bog', at the Tullamore venue on Friday last.

Commissioned under the Percent for Art Scheme, 'Jewels of the Bog' is a stunning new permanent installation by acclaimed glass artist Michelle O’Donnell.

The launch event celebrated the culmination of a deeply meaningful project exploring Offaly’s unique boglands and cultural heritage.

The launch featured speeches by Offaly County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr John Leahy, Esker Arts Director Seán Walsh, and the artist herself, who shared insights into the creative process and the inspiration behind the work.

'Jewels of the Bog' reflects Offaly’s profound connection to its boglands, often described as “the lungs of Ireland.”

Through illuminated glass forms inspired by the textures, colours, and quiet beauty of Lough Boora’s landscape, Michelle O’Donnell invites viewers to appreciate bogs as vital ecosystems and cultural touchstones.

The commission began with an intensive community engagement phase, including collaboration with women from the Offaly Traveller Movement, exploring themes of memory, loss, and belonging.

These conversations informed the creation of glowing glass ‘jewels’, a tribute to place, identity, and resilience.

The event attracted a large attendance, with guests expressing admiration for the artworks, which now grace the Esker Arts foyer as a permanent feature.

The artworks are now on permanent display in the Esker Arts foyer, offering visitors an enduring celebration of Offaly’s natural and cultural heritage.

This project was made possible through the support of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Offaly County Council, Offaly Arts Office, Esker Arts Centre, Lough Boora Sculpture Park, and the Offaly Traveller Movement.