For the past two years, Reimagine Workers’ Villages has paired architect teams with communities in the former Bord na Móna villages of Cloontuskert, Co. Roscommon and Kilcormac, Co. Offaly. As Ireland moves away from the use of peat for energy production, these villages are considering what a Just Transition means for them. Our project works with local communities to imagine what a thriving and sustainable future for the villages might look like, while also celebrating the rich history and identities of these important peatland communities. It also reflects on the design legacy of village architect Frank Gibney and the lessons we can learn as we move towards a more sustainable future.
Our exhibition at the Ploughing will give visitors a look inside the project so far, exploring the great work being done in each of the villages and inviting people to share their own stories of Gibney’s villages. The Workers’ Villages team will also be holding talks on the Creative Ireland Stage (12.30 – 13.00) and Government of Ireland Stage (17.00 – 17.45) on Wednesday 21st, discussing their experiences with the project and plans and hopes for the future.
Joining us for drop-in sessions at our exhibit are Global Action Plan on Tues 20th, and IAF Open House Dublin on Thurs 22nd. Global Action Plan will be offering advice and toolkits for communities interested in becoming more sustainable. The Open House team will be there to talk to anyone interested in getting involved in the festival.
Stay up to date with the Workers’ Villages project by joining our dedicated Facebook group.
Workers’ Villages is supported by Creative Ireland’s Creative Climate Action Fund. The IAF Reimagine placemaking programme is funded by the Arts Council, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Reimagine was made possible through seed funding by the Creative Ireland Programme’s National Creativity Fund.
Cover image: National Ploughing Association
