The hands of time

Former employees, family members, and those connected with a now closed world renowned Cork business are invited to come and lend a hand for a unique art project celebrating its legacy.

This Saturday, artist Katie Nolan will host a hand-casting workshop at Greywood Arts in Killeagh with the aim of creating 42 hand sculptures to represent the 42 workers that were needed to prepare the looms at Youghal Carpets which closed in the ‘80s. The project is called Creating Connections.

The plaster sculptures will become part of an art exhibition that speaks to the historical, social, cultural, and artistic heritage of the industry that was Youghal Carpets.

Dating back to the 1950s, it became internationally renowned for its quality, style, and durability, with noteworthy commissions such as Las Vegas casinos and Palace of the Sultan of Brunei. A major employer and integral part of the local community and economy for several decades, its demise and closure in 1984 had a significant impact on the socio-economic fabric of Youghal and the surrounding areas.

Recently, Katie and Greywood Arts explored the multi-dimensional story of Youghal Carpets through a series of workshops involving ex workers, their families, and other interested parties. Katiesaid: “My intention is to make a faithful and potent representation of the manual skill and labour that was part of the Youghal Carpet workforce. So, we are really interested in meeting people with stories and connections to Youghal Carpets, and we hope that they will come along on Saturday for this unique workshop.”

Creating Connections is supported by Creative Ireland and Cork County Council.