Nolan's inspiration from trees for latest exhibition

The Pearse Museum's latest temporary exhibition, Primal Landscape by Kate Nolan, opened to coincide with National Tree Week.  Kate’s work has always been deeply influenced by the landscape around her and this collection has been particularly inspired by the trees and woods of St Enda’s Park in Rathfarnham in which the Pearse Museum is located.  The environment of St Enda’s Park has had a major influence on her work as she has lived on its doorstep for many years. 
Kate Nolan reflected on the importance of trees in her life and the inspiration they have provided for her latest exhibition: 
She says: "I am particularly drawn to trees.  For as long as I can remember they have been a part of my life.  As a child I climbed up, fell down, hung ropes and made swings from their branches.  I collected dazzling coloured leaves in the autumn and made prints, fashioned toy weapons from twigs, hid in them, sat under them and sheltered from the rain.  When I stand at the base of a tall tree and look up, I feel connected to the sky.  To me, they are like mighty living monuments of nature and I never cease to be amazed by their size, strength, calm and beauty.  Even their barks resemble vibrant, textured, abstract paintings.’  
The exhibition was opened by Dr Matthew Jebb, Director of the National Botanic Gardens, and will run until 20th May.  Admission is free.