This willow weaving project is a creative collaboration between Scoil Bernadette, a school for young people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, and master basketmaker, multimedia artist, and sculptor Lynn Kirkham. The hands-on initiative aims to engage students and staff in a meaningful and collaborative process to design and construct a natural woven sculpture from sustainably sourced willow, resulting in a permanent outdoor structure for the school.

Kicking off with a visit to Lynn's studio in Tipperary, a delegation of students will meet the artist, explore her previous works, and learn about the cultural significance of willow—a material Lynn grows and harvests herself. This visit will spark creative awareness and appreciation for Irish cultural heritage, traditional craft skills, and possibilities within a viable creative industry. Lynn will then come to Scoil Bernadette for a planning day, where she and the students will finalise the sculpture design. Emphasising student voice, the design process will be led by the students, with input gathered through various creative methodologies.

Over a number of creation days, students will work outdoors at the school, weaving willow under Lynn's guidance. Engaging in this hands-on activity serves as a therapeutic outlet, promoting emotional well-being and strengthening social connections as students work together on this meaningful project, that will culminate in a beautiful, student-designed sculpture for all to enjoy.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.