When The Avenue Residents’ Association approached Gorey Tidy Towns offering to fund a new mural for The Civic Square, we were absolutely delighted. The news got even better when renowned local artist James Kirwan agreed to paint it. He came up with a design that reflects one theory that ‘Guaire’ means ‘place where goats grazed’ or ‘Town of Goats’, a very appropriate theme for this, the Gorey 400 year. The piece was completed on Friday 13th September and the response has been very positive with members of the community commenting on the quality of the work and how exciting it is to see a new piece of art, unique to Gorey and reflective of our heritage accessible to all in our Civic Square.
James has made a name for himself both internationally and at home, and previously painted the crocodile on the side of Different Strokes on St Michael’s Road. He is a rising star, and definitely one to watch.
As James finished his piece, Tidy Towns chairman Billy Halford was joined at the mural by Patricia Masterson and Tony Woulfe representing the Avenue residents, and new district manager Michael Drea, to thank James for his superb work.
We look forward to adding another mural to the wall in the near future, and then as funds allow, more will be added to complete this colourful art wall. A huge thank you to all involved.