A Project about East Cork's Past & Present Textile Traditions

With artist Katie Nolan, former Youghal Carpet Workers and their families, and a diverse cross section of professional and hobbyist textile makers

Greywood Arts in partnership with artist Katie Nolan have been engaging former factory workers and their families to conceive and develop an artwork shaped through social production, and that speaks to the historical, social, artistic and cultural reference points of the industry that was Youghal Carpets. 
At the core of Katie’s practice is an interest in the relationship between humanity and technology and in particular, the impact of advances in technology on the future of work. As modern forms of tech, digital and AI continue to replace human ability, what will humans do for work and what will become of our haptic sensibilities?

Youghals’ carpet industry, dating back to the 1950’s became internationally renowned for its quality, style and durability, with noteworthy commissions such as the Las Vegas Casinos and the 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.

Katie has been exploring the multidimensional story of the factory, its culture and the work lives lived of the staff at Youghal Carpets through a series of workshops. 

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