Special demonstrations on glass and paper conservation and flower design to run every Saturday from 26 February
Armagh Robinson Library has launched a series of three special afternoon events to jump start creative minds in art and conservation – including a unique demonstration from renowned local paper conservator Sean Madden.
Madden, from Lurgan, gained great international acclaim for expertly restoring the priceless 10-metre hand-drawn plan of the Titanic which was used during the enquiry into its sinking in 1912. It remains proudly on display in the world class Belfast attraction.
Armagh Robinson Library, which is organising the events, is one of the oldest libraries on the island of Ireland and has been captivating generations with historical treasure, priceless books and fine art since the 18th century.
Celebrating a fresh spring start, it has specially arranged three distinguished experts in stained glass, paper and flowers to share their passion and skill for the creative arts with demonstrations, discussion and hands-on experience.
Running every Saturday afternoon from 26 February, this year’s ‘Afternoon on the Hill of Armagh’ series will see three stunning venues – St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Armagh Robinson Library and No 5 Vicars’ Hill – host three creative and immersive workshops.
On Saturday 26 February, the Cathedral is the perfect, iconic setting for a compelling demonstration on stained glass history, design, and technique which will be delivered by class craftsmen Stuart Suckling and Thomas McLaughlin from CWS Design
On Saturday 5 March, Visitors are invited to learn how to conserve and protect precious prints and letters under the guidance of Sean Madden at No 5 Vicars’ Hill, the historic Diocesan Registry built to house official civic papers and documents in the city.
A decade ago, Sean was given the important responsibility of conserving the original plan of Titanic Belfast, one of the most expensive pieces of Titanic memorabilia in the world. The drawing was used at an inquiry which took place three weeks after the sinking of the vessel and still bears the chalk marks used to indicate where the iceberg made contact with the ship.
Sean was also responsible for conserving the last ever letter to be written on the stricken ship.
Meanwhile, visitors can explore the language of flowers at Armagh Robinson Library on Saturday 12 March and enjoy a demonstration on floral art for all occasions, expertly delivered by local expert Annette Foster from OL Flowers.
Carol Conlin, Assistant keeper of Armagh Robinson Library, said:
“Not only steeped in history and heritage, Armagh is a place of huge creativity and a leader in art, craft, design and conservation and we’re thrilled to have arranged this special series of Saturday afternoon demonstrations with the finest, acclaimed experts in their field.
We look forward to welcoming everyone to spend an ‘Afternoon on the Hill’ in Armagh and encourage everyone to book early to secure their place as soon as possible.”
For more information and to book your place, jump into Visit Armagh at https://bit.ly/3sO7LMP
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