The Rann na Feirste-based circular economy and arts project, Ciorcal has been recognised at the national Circular.ie awards.
Ciorcal is based in Áislann Rann na Feirste, a community centre supporting heritage, recreation, education, culture and community activities in the Gaeltacht area of west Donegal.
They source recycled, pre-loved and broken materials from community donations and run workshops where participants learn to repair, up-cycle or transform these donated goods into craft pieces or artworks. The Circular awards celebrate everyday people and community groups across Ireland who are helping to create positive change through circular living. The award was accepted at a special presentation night in Carlow, by Maria Coleman, Manager of Áislann Rann na Feirste.
Project worker in Rann na Feirste Méabh Mackel said they are absolutely delighted to receive this recognition, adding that Ciorcal aims to build on the vital services delivered by the Áislann by educating and inspiring the community on the potential of many materials deemed rubbish.
“Our SSE funded Ciorcal project allows us to supplement the other community classes we run at the Áislann. We have a busy programme of events this autumn which we run with help from ETB and Meitheal Pleanála Teanga.”
“At present Ciorcal is running an art competition with schools across the island this October, encouraging students to make art from rubbish. The winners will have their art turned into Irish language greeting cards for the Áislann.
“We’ll also have Halloween craft sessions for adults and children and a spooky craft fair with fancy dress and scary stories on October 31,” she said.
They will again run the popular adult sewing classes, building on the success of the previous terms.
In November and December, they hope to expand this to a Making and Mending Circle, upcycled fashion sessions, furniture revival, basket weaving, and kombucha classes. Their programme of events will culminate in the Christmas craft fair on Saturday, December 5.
Maria Moore, a regular contributor of scenic photos to the Donegal News, at the fair in Rann na Feirste with her 2027 scenic calendars.
Noreen Pryce-Mason with her jams and home bakes at the Ciorcal market in Áislann Rann na Feirste.
Karen Sharkey picks up some gifts from Caitlin Coyle at the Rann na Feirste Ciorcal sale day.
Bridig Gallagher and Kristina Ferry at the Ciorcal market in Rann na Feirste.
Donal Clancy and Tara Walsh in Áislann Rann na Feirste at the Ciorcail market at the weekend.
Méabh Mackel of Londú with Samantha and Susan Johnston of Seagull Island Design Studio at the Ciorcal market event in Rann na Feirste. Photos: Eoin McGarvey.