Sperrin Sculptural Trail

The Guardian, Darach - Mullaghcarn Mountain, Gortin Glen Forest Park
The Storyteller, Nowanis- Glenelly Road, Plumbridge
The Stargazer, Ceoldáan - Davagh Forest Park

Conceived by McGurk Architects in collaboration with International Artist, Thomas Dambo, the sculptural trilogy presents the Sperrin Mountain region in a compelling and unforgettable manner.

Initial research delving into the history and geology of the Sperrins laid the groundwork for the original concepts behind the sculptures. Each giant possesses a unique narrative that intricately connects it to the people and the land. By weaving together Celtic and Neolithic myths of giants, multiple dimensions, and ancient history, the sculptures transport visitors on a captivating journey, reviving magical tales against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sperrins.

The project encountered numerous challenges; the selected sites for the giants' installation are situated within areas of significant archaeological importance and ecological sensitivity. Consequently, a delicate approach was necessary for each site, involving extensive engagement with planning departments, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), and the Historic Environment Division (HED).

Despite these obstacles, the three sculptures now serve as iconic landmarks, attracting thousands of visitors and contributing to a broader media campaign led by Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland.

The Stargazer

In Davagh Forest, the place where astronomy meets archaeology, you'll encounter Ceoldán, known as the Stargazer. Positioned on a freshly built timber boardwalk, Ceoldán (derived from the Irish words ‘Ceol’ for music and ‘dán’ for poem) endeavours to capture the brilliance of the night sky, particularly ‘The Seven Sisters’, within his spiral artistry. 'The Seven Sisters' denotes both a star formation and the seven sacred trees of Ireland—Oak, Apple, Hazel, Ash, Yew, Alder, and Elder—planted in the vicinity by local schoolchildren as part of a project fostering engagement and community cohesion.

The arrangement of stones within the Giant’s spiral evokes the standing stones discovered within Davagh Forest and the nearby Beaghmore Stone Circles.

The Storytellers

At the Sperrin Heritage Centre, Nowanois, the giant, reclines alongside his younger counterpart within a ringfort, a portal. Remarkably, there are six Irish ringforts documented within a mere 3 kilometres of this site, indicative of medieval and early Christian habitation in the region. In Irish folklore, a portal signifies a place where one can transcend dimensions, traversing through time and space to connect with other realms, both past and future.

The two giants’ share the same name which comes from the English name ‘now’ and the Irish ‘anoir’ (now). They are one and the same, from different times, exchanging memories and stories. Ireland's rich reputation as a land of myth and legend finds embodiment in these giants, underscoring the oral tradition of passing down stories and songs from one generation to the next.

The Guardian

Darach, named after the Irish term for 'Oak', a word symbolizing protection, stands majestically atop Mullaghcarn Mountain. 'Oak' holds significance as one of the 'Seven Trees of Ireland' and serves as the primary material for all the giants' constructions. This sculpture draws inspiration from Celtic mythology, depicting a giant emerging through a portal veiled in crystals.

Emphasising the ecology and landscape of the Sperrins, Darach commands a panoramic view over the region, spanning from Fermanagh to Derry, Donegal, and beyond, serving as the guardian of the land. Encircled by standing stones strategically placed to navigate the terrain, Darach pays homage to an ancient tradition. These stones commemorate the timeless practice of individuals, over thousands of years, transporting stones to the summit of Mullaghcarn to augment the cairn there. It's apt that Mullach Cairn (Mullaghcarn) derived its name from this very cairn, signifying the 'summit of the heap of stones'.

Home Page Photography: Credit Todd Watson

Awards

Finalist: RICS Community Benefit Award 2024