Art for a Sustainable Future: Aghamore Foróige's Climate Justice Mural
Climate Justice Mural Aghamore, Co. Mayo
I recently had the privilege of painting my largest mural to date on the side of the community centre in Aghamore, Co. Mayo. This project was a collaboration with the Aghamore Foróige youth group as part of the European Youth Climate Justice Fund, which aims to amplify the voice of youth on issues of climate justice.
As an artist, I was excited to collaborate with the Foróige youth group to brainstorm ideas and design a mural that conveyed their message about climate justice. We discussed the concept of climate justice and what message the youth of a small rural village in Mayo would like to communicate about it. The concept of agroforestry emerged as particularly relevant—a future-focused farming system that raises cattle in lands abundant with trees instead of clearing them for grazing. Agroforestry not only enhances soil and grass quality but also provides vital shelter and protection from intensifying climate changes. This mural encapsulates this vision, featuring two clumps of hawthorn trees in full blossom, framing a picturesque landscape teeming with trees, cattle, and vibrant wildflowers. At the forefront, a boy and a girl plant tree saplings, symbolizing our collective responsibility to nurture a sustainable future. The mural's text succinctly captures our aspirations: "Let's grow a sustainable future together."
Over the five days of painting, I felt more and more comfortable on the top of the scaffold, overcoming my fear of heights. The experience was both challenging and rewarding, but what I found most inspiring was working with the youth group. The Foróige youth and their leaders were passionate about promoting a sustainable future and raising awareness about climate justice in their community. It was an honor to collaborate with them to create a mural that conveyed their message.
Me painting high up on the scaffold, Aghamore Foróige's Climate Justice Mural.
The idea of agroforestry is an example of forward-thinking sustainable agriculture that considers the environment's health while providing for the community's needs. Their mural encourages us all to take responsibility for the environment and work towards creating a better future.
The importance of community involvement and collaboration in addressing climate change cannot be overstated. Art has the power to spread awareness about critical issues, and murals like the one in Aghamore can inspire action towards a more sustainable future.
Aghamore itself has a remarkable story to tell. The community believes they have created the first rural campus in Ireland, comprising a National School, an adjacent childcare facility, a floodlit all-weather pitch with an athletics track, and a multifunctional amenities building. All of these facilities are situated on an integrated 8-acre site, providing immense benefits for the community. Today, they offer 15 different services to 41 organizations, all on a voluntary basis.
It's incredible to think that this endeavor started as a greenfield site in 2005 with no funding. Through perseverance and determination, Aghamore has invested €2.6M and now stands on less than 10% debt. Their next projects include the establishment of Men's and Women's Sheds, as well as self-generating electricity through PV solar panels.
The Aghamore community's story is truly unique and inspiring, and I am honored to be a part of it. Working on this mural was not only a creative endeavor but also a chance to contribute to the community's vision of a sustainable future.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Aghamore Foróige youth group and their leaders for their collaboration and inspiring message. It was an absolute privilege to work with them on this project, and I hope that their message reaches far and wide. Together, let's continue working towards creating a better future for ourselves and future generations.
Lastly, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Fiona, Malachy, Mary, and Moyra for their invaluable assistance with logistics and their warm welcome during my time working on the mural. Their support and kindness made the experience even more enjoyable and memorable.
Thank you for taking the time to read about this incredible project. Your support means a lot, and I hope this mural and its message resonate with you.
