Finnish timber sculptor to create major new artwork in Geashill

An internationally acclaimed environmental sculptor, Jaakko Pernu, is coming to Offaly in September for a two-week artist residency that will culminate with the creation of a major new permanent sculpture in Geashill.

Mr Pernu is due to create the new artwork in the village's historic Glebe Walk.

Taking place from September 7 to 20, his residency forms part of Ireland's celebrations of its presidency of the Council of the Europe.

During the residency, visitors will have the rare opportunity to see an internationally-recognised artist creating a large-scale sculpture from locally sourced timber in the heart of Geashill.

The project, entitled 'Planting', will be accompanied by a programme of public events including an artist talk, music evening, school visits, Glebe tours and the official unveiling of the completed work.

During this past year, Geashill Tidy Towns has been working with curator and project manager Kevin O'Dwyer, who has collaborated with Jaakko Pernu on a number of international projects.

Together they have developed the residency, bringing together local organisations, cultural partners and the wider community to realise this ambitious project in Geashill.

Mr Pernu is recognised internationally for his monumental sculptures created from natural timber, branches and tree trunks.

His work explores the relationship between people, forests and the landscape, creating sculptural forms that appear both ancient and contemporary. His sculptures have been exhibited across Europe, Asia and North America and are held in numerous public and private collections.

Speaking about the upcoming Offaly residency, Jaakko Pernu said: "I am very much looking forward to working in Geashill. Creating a sculpture over two weeks allows people to experience the work as it develops day-by-day.

"I hope the residency becomes a shared experience where conversations, encounters and the surrounding landscape all become part of the finished artwork.

"It is especially meaningful to be part of Ireland's celebration of its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, highlighting the cultural connections between Finland and Ireland through art."

Offaly County Council said the upcoming residency will also highlight the unique character of Geashill.

"The medieval roots of the village, its remarkable planned estate architecture and the tranquil setting of the Glebe Walk provide an ideal location for an artwork that responds directly to place and landscape," said the local authority.

Throughout the residency, the public will be encouraged to return regularly to witness the sculpture's progress and take part in the accompanying programme of events.

A documentary film will also follow the project, recording both the creative process and the involvement of the local community, ensuring the residency leaves a lasting legacy beyond the completed sculpture itself.

With the support of Culture Ireland, Geashill Tidy Towns, Offaly County Council, and Creative Ireland, 'Planting' promises to be one of the cultural highlights of the autumn, placing Geashill on the map as a destination for international contemporary art.