New Drogheda Port art commission unveiled
Drogheda Port Company's annual arts commission has been awarded to artist Breda Marron. The work, now completed, is a bronze sculpture depicting the eternal connection of love flowing through the swans in the Children of Lir. The sculpture was created in a unique way, reflecting the woven technique found in the ancient maritime tradition of weaving hazel and willow in the making the Boyne Currach.
The sculpture will join the other pieces in the Drogheda Port art collection. The growing collection which commenced fifteen years ago represents the best in local art and covers a wide range of forms. The sculpture was unveiled in the port offices by Breda.
She said: “I was honoured to be chosen for the Maritime Art commission. Nests, boats and vessels are symbols that have been central to my artwork for many years, which I see as symbolising sacred spaces of protection, comfort and safety. The sculpture is a celebration of the connection of mythology, community and the ancient wisdom connected to the many Irish waterways.”
Dr Joseph Hiney, acting chairperson of Drogheda Port Company, in accepting the sculpture said “I am delighted that the company is continuing to support local artists in this very unique way. The annual arts commission has been running now for many years and the latest addition by Breda is a stunning piece of work representing the best of local talent.”
Last June, Drogheda Port Company announced the return of its annual arts commission which was open to local artists to submit any art form or medium for the creation of an art piece on a maritime or port based theme. The response to Drogheda Port Company’s invitation was overwhelming with a very high standard of submissions.
In August the commission was awarded to Breda Marron who has been living in Drogheda since 2005 and has felt a close affinity to Drogheda Port and its activities as her children had attended the local crèche within the original Harbour Masters house and she became aware of the daily activities within the port and the constant changing tides.
The sculpture was unveiled in the port offices and will be on public display for the next month in the Tholsel, Drogheda.