Saturday 15th August 2026
Location: Shee Almshouse
Alternative Kilkenny Arts Festival A day of interactive workshops delivered by Kilkenny artists, all exploring the theme of heritage at risk. Join us for three hands-on workshops exploring the connections between creativity, nature, biodiversity, and local heritage. All three workshops welcome all skill levels and offer an opportunity to learn, create, and reconnect with the natural environment of Kilkenny. 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Coiled Grass Basket WorkshopMonica Fleming leads an interactive workshop exploring heritage crafts made from locally grown natural fibres, including hay from local wildflower meadows in Kilkenny. Participants learn simple weaving techniques while reflecting on ecological vulnerability, traditional knowledge, and the role of sustainable craft in caring for threatened landscapes. 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Hanging in Balance – Investigation of local biodiversity through sketchingThis year’s AKA Heritage Week event offers an interactive charcoal workshop led by environmental artist Jen Castle. Participants will explore our wildlife and its native food plants through this engaging session. They’ll reference an original panel artwork titled ‘Hanging in the Balance’ which beautifully depicts birds and insects alongside their native food sources. Throughout the workshop, participants will learn charcoal drawing techniques and create a long scroll of paper filled with plants and creatures. The artwork panel serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial dependence of wildlife on our native plants. Birds and insects are intricately linked to their native food sources, and this workshop aims to highlight this vital connection. The workshop welcomes all ages and abilities. 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Concertina sketchbook Making WorkshopIn this hands-on two‑hour workshop, Mairead Holohan invites participants to create their own concertina sketchbook using simple folding techniques and accessible materials. She introduces a playful mark‑making session with pens, brushes, and homemade natural inks, encouraging people to explore colour, texture, and expressive lines. Participants will experiment with locally sourced pigments, learning how everyday plants and household materials can be transformed into vibrant inks. The workshop blends creativity with curiosity, offering a relaxed space to sketch, test, splash, and respond intuitively to the unfolding pages of their handmade book.
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