Real stories carved in stone

Cillian Ferry

A new exhibition featuring the Cork Simon Community Stone Carving Group is set to open in the coming weeks, showcasing participants’ creative expression and the development of their skills.

The exhibition entitled ‘Vessels’ is an exploration of containment by the Stone Carving Group. The group has been in existence since 2021 under the guidance of stone carver Tommy Lysaght. This is the group’s first public exhibition of participants solo pieces, taking place on Thursday 1 October from 11am-3pm at The Glen Community Resource Centre. This event follows on from their work as a collective, gifting Cork city a pair of matching stone and marble chess tables situated on Pope’s Quay and a trio of standing stones in the Peace Park on the Grande Parade.

“The stone carving group itself has been a vessel, holding the participants during times of change in their own lives and as a community,” said Lysaght. “The group moved from their original location in Victoria Road to the Glen Resource Centre which has welcomed the participants, supporters and their work with open arms. Our participants have faced many challenges in their lives, including homelessness. This group provides both containment and creative expression: both a holding place and a way to move forwards. That is why we chose this theme.”

Participants were invited to interpret their own understanding of vessels ahead of the showcase, thinking about the concepts of home, place, and movement.

‘Vessels’ is a one-day exhibition open to all, supported by Cork Simon Education and Training, Cork Education and Training Board and The Glen Resource Centre. Doors open at 11am where guests can view the work and meet the artists. The official opening takes place at 12pm with guest speakers and refreshments.