Rothe House hosted a vibrant and uplifting International Women’s Day event featuring artist Michelle McMahon, delivered by Kilkenny County Council’s Biodiversity Office in collaboration with the Kilkenny Creative Ireland Programme
Michelle shared an inspirational presentation on ecofeminism, exploring prehistoric Goddess cultures and the deep relationship our Irish ancestors had with the land and its female deities, including ?riu, whose name is rooted in “abundance” and “the land of plenty.”
Cathaoirleach Mary Hilda Cavanagh welcomed attendees, highlighting how Michelle’s participatory arts practice champions a sustainable, inclusive society that values women, nature, and community. She also encouraged the many young women present to recognise their collective power in shaping a society that protects and respects the natural world.
Biodiversity Officer Bernadette Moloney outlined upcoming biodiversity projects for the year, including habitat restoration and plans to repeat the successful Community Biodiversity course. She emphasised the positive impact of individual and community action and encouraged continued support for the Kilkenny Biodiversity Action Plan 2025–2030.
The audience also enjoyed a visual exhibition of Michelle’s community-led environmental art, including the We Are Nature banner and the striking Brat Br?de cloaks, created with over 300 women.
In a memorable and theatrical moment, participants Eadaoin Walsh, Maria Dollard, Monica Fleming, Freda Murphy, and Helen Costelloe brought Irish goddesses to life through performance, embodying ?riu, Boann, Brigid, the Morrigan, and the Cailleach.
The event was a rich celebration of creativity, heritage, empowerment, and the powerful relationship between women and the natural world.
