Art and history meet as Táin March stops off in Town Park

By Clodagh McKeon

The Táin March Festival stopped in the Town Park as it passed through Mullingar on Sunday.

At the event in the Town Park, artist Ann Meldon discussed her sculpture, ‘The Silver Brosna’ with archaeologist Paul Gosling.

Paul’s recently published book on the route of An Táin ó Cúailnge includes an image of ‘The Silver Brosna’.

Ann said she was delighted with how well the sculpture looks twelve years since it was installed.

‘I am surprised with how well the colour has maintained in the bronze. I mean, I was hopeful it would, but it's perfect really’.

Ann explained how it was interesting for her to revisit her art theme of Irish mythology while creating ‘The Silver Bosna’ and even reminisced on her previous pieces that are on display throughout the country.

She mentioned her piece, Moategranoge, that was stolen from its previous location on the M6 coming into Moate back in 2011. She told of how it was very similar to her sculpture here in Mullingar.

Paul Gosling read an extract from An Táin Bó Cúailnge that gave context to the sculpture. He explained the history behind the River Brosna which in turn was the inspiration behind ‘The Silver Brosna’.

The Táin March Festival, which began in Rathcroghan in Roscommon, continues on to Athlone Castle this Friday June 24 to welcome Queen Medb and her warriors to the town.

It will start at the Civic Square, Church Street at 5.30pm and proceed down Church Street and across the town bridge to Athlone Castle. Admission to the castle visitor centre and museum will be free and there will be outdoor chess, board games and costumes for children to enjoy.