In 1974 the artist Elizabeth Zollinger moved from Switzerland to Inishmore. She has developed an intimate relationship with the Island, its people and its culture. It is this intimacy and her excellent relations with the local islanders that inspired her to develop the Celtic Spirit Project in 1996, a series of Cultural Weeks which aim to preserve and retain the true culture and heritage of Inishmore while developing and promoting a sustainable tourism for the Island.
The Celtic Spirit Project
Full of warmth, with a great love for life, these were the people who welcomed me to the island of Inis Mór. They are a proud people too, proud of their old culture and keen to retain it.
As a painter, I was equally enthralled by the landscape’s primal beauty, by the wild Atlantic and above all by the fabulous light and the intensity of the local colours. I was truly enchanted and so I returned year after year.
Inis Mór is an ancient place. The past seems to pulse from its Celtic and prehistoric sites and it lives on in the local legends, language, dance and song. These rich cultural features form the natural ingredients for our Celtic Weeks and through them you will be able to experience an unforgettable holiday on this magic island.
So Fáilte go hÁrainn!
Elizabeth Zollinger
Organisation Team
Elizabeth Zollinger, artist (organisation)
Treasa Ní Mhiolláin, sean nós singer
Tony Ryan, dancing teacher
Niall de Burca, storyteller
Liz Weir, storyteller
Dr. Prannie Rhatigan, seaweed specialist
Dominic Monaghan, archaeologist
Dara Ó Mhaoidhia, expert on celtic heritage
Vincent Mac Ceráin, basketmaker
Treasa Joyce, hostess, Kilmurveyhouse
and many more young and old islanders
THE PROJECT CONSISTS OF TWO PILLARS
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The Culture Weeks
The culture weeks are designed with sensitivity and offer an authentic experience of the rich irish heritage of the Aran Islands.
The programmes are developed in conjunction with the local islanders to ensure the highest quality. They are also on hand during the week to meet with you and lead the different acitvities.
A strong command of English is not essential. German translation can be provided , and the energy, humour, enthusiasm and the colourful personalities of the islanders speak an international language.
The programmes with 8-14 participants focus on:
Setdancing
Gaelic Singing (sean-nós)
Storytelling
Celtic Heritage
Archaelogy and Geology of the Island
Irish Language
Guided Walks
Traditional Basket Weaving
Accomodation
A warm and friendly welcome from Treasa awaits you at Kilmurvey House, a refurbished mansion , conveniently located near a beautiful beach and a pub.
It offers delicious home cooking. All rooms feature private bath and direct-dial phone.
Activities take place in the Creig-an-Chéirín Centre, with its spectacular view over the sea and the Connemara mountains.
Transport from the guesthouse to the centre will be provided.