Exhibition celebrates Youghal Carpets’ staff

An exhibition reflecting on the rich history and cultural legacy of the Youghal Carpets factory will take place at The Mall Arts Centre in Youghal from March 14 to March 23.

The Knot On The Fly is a partnership between Greywood Arts and artist Katie Nolan.

A conclusion of a collaborative project with former workers of the renowned textile factory and their families, the exhibition offers a “poignant exploration” of the socio-economic, cultural and artistic impact of the factory.

Speaking at the launch of the exhibition, Greywood Arts creative director Jessica Bonenfant said Youghal Carpets was a focal point of the community and East Cork economy for many decades.

“This exhibition celebrates the workers of Youghal Carpets.

“By offering ways to reconnect with one another through workshops in papermaking and weaving, storytelling and hand-casting, artist Katie Nolan combines their stories and shared experiences into a poignant and important creative expression through The Knot On The Fly exhibition.”

The Knot On The Fly considers the nature of modern technology and the diminishing role of touch and manual skill in contemporary life.

This is done through video, installation, 3D prints, letterpress, printmaking and sculpture.

Over a number of months last year, events were organised at Greywood Arts in Killeagh for former workers at Youghal Carpets from both Youghal and Carrigtwohill factories.

They came with precious memorabilia, old wool and jute, photographs and documents from their Youghal Carpets days.

A multidisciplinary artist based in West Waterford, Ms Nolan felt compelled to honour these keepsakes and to record the workers’ anecdotal stories.

The public are invited to attend the official opening on Friday, March 14 from 5pm.

A conversation with the artist will take place on Saturday, March 15 at 12 noon, which will provide further insight into the research, artistic process and community collaboration behind the exhibition. The exhibition will be open daily from 10:30am to 4:30pm until March 23.