Heritage wall artwork in progress

It's certainly Kilcullen's biggest piece of street art so far, and the Heritage Wall piece is well under way and could be finished tomorrow, depending on the weather, writes Brian Byrne. Taking up two gable ends facing down the Newbridge Road, the KCA-commissioned artwork is located there courtesy of Mick Heavey of Fitzpatrick & Heavey Homes.

Artist Steve O'Donnell of the artistic team that won the commission tender, All Out Design, is spending three days working on the specially developed theme, incorporating local history, heritage, nature, and the environment. The design includes motifs of Kilcullen bridge, a horse, a stylised waving hand of welcome, the Liffey, swans, badgers, and wildflowers. Funding for the project has been supported by public contributions, a St Patrick's Day swim by patrons of The Spout, a table quiz, donation from the Community Centre, and from other sources.

"This landmark initiative is bringing an inspiring new piece of public art to Kilcullen," says KCA's Ann Cashman, who has led the project for the group. "We’re delighted to be working with an incredibly talented artist to create a mural that celebrates our heritage, community, and identity."

The artist has been working in this field for 20 years, and set up a business with two friends when they were still in art college. "It just ended up working, and we've never stopped," he told the Diary today, adding that they have worked for city and county councils, corporate clients, and also some private commissions. He says it seems to be a good spot for the project, as there's always traffic. "A lot of people have already stopped and complimented the project, or beeping and shouting encouragement as they drive by, so it's certainly getting attention."

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