Pictured at the launch of Sonic Garden were, from left: Senator Cathal Byrne, Councillor Aidan Browne (cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy District Council), Leigh Rogers (principal), Cathal McCarthy (sculptor), Fr. Tom Dalton (board of management and school chaplain), Lisa Byrne (curator), Ann Marie Furlong (deputy principal) and Dr. Cheryl Poole (board of management and parent).

Mayo sculptor launches unique sonic sculpture

Published:

A ground-breaking new sonic sculpture has been unveiled at St. Patrick’s Special School in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

The sculptural installation was created by acclaimed Mayo-based sculptor Cathal McCarthy.

Entitled Sonic Garden, this sensory sound installation represents an extraordinary fusion of art, education and accessibility, specifically designed for students with special needs to enjoy making music.

It was brought to life using advanced modelling and laser-cutting techniques in collaboration with Olandi Engineering in Castlebar.

The Sonic Garden transforms the school’s outdoor space into an engaging sensory soundscape featuring a series of large, vibrant chimes, a seven-note bell tree, and a 16-note hand-tuned xylophone.This accessible and inclusive installation encourages students of all ages to explore music, creativity and sensory learning in a playful, outdoor setting.

As the largest sound installation of its kind in Ireland, the Sonic Garden offers a unique opportunity for musical education and enjoyment, fostering self-expression and collaboration.

Speaking about the project, principal Lee Rodgers stated: “Sonic Garden is a wonderful addition for our new school designed by sculptor Cathal McCarthy for students with special needs to create music in a beautiful and fun way. It is an inspiring and uniquely innovative way to enrich the students learning experience.”

Cathal McCarthy, renowned for iconic public art installations such as Word-Tree in Louisburgh and Stream-Spire in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, is celebrated for his ability to craft large-scale works that resonate with communities.

Currently, McCarthy is also working on Big Skygazer, a significant project for Roscommon County Council in partnership with Michael McLaughlin, lecturer in art at ATU Limerick and director of Monarú Studios.

The Sonic Garden was officially launched at St. Patrick’s Special School on March 14, marking a milestone in Irish public art and special needs education. The project was made possible through the Department of Education’s Percent for Art Scheme.

For more information about Cathal McCarthy and his work, visit www.cathalmccarthy.net.

Published: