There are always interesting things happening at Fort Dunree thanks to the community arts group Artlink based at the Fort, which is dramatically perched on cliffs above the eastern shores of Lough Swilly in County Donegal. A recent arts residency by the wonderfully creative UV Arts C.I.C., who created that famous mural for the Channel 4 hit T.V. series, ‘Derry Girls’, has produced an intriguing outdoor exhibition of paint-free murals. Yes, paint-free! Using a high-powered jet power washer, they have produced water spray art from years of salty grime from the wild Atlantic. Site specific, the murals have been created on the Fort’s buildings and on the remains of old building foundations, totally genius!
The innovative Water Spray project involved young people from the local area who used stencils and a power washer to create contemporary designs on concrete. The resulting artwork will last for days or weeks depending on the weather conditions and will fade with time highlighting the impermanence of life and art.
So don’t wait too long, come see them before they are washed away by the weather storms along this corner of the Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way on the Inishowen Peninsula.
One of the best things to do in Donegal, and a great way to experience Fort Dunree first hand, is with your own local guide on our popular Walk Through Time walking tour. Lead by a Fáilte Ireland approved regional tour guide, we will explore the story of Lough Swilly and Fort Dunree on a fascinating journey through time from the end of the last Ice Age to the arrival of the first inhabitants, to Dunree becoming the reputed royal seat of the McLaughlin Clan and a site of strategic and defensive importance during the Napoleonic, First and Second World Wars. We will also explore the hardy local flora and fauna that have survived and thrived in this truly wild and unforgettable location. A place full of cultural heritage, on this walking route you will also get to see and hear about the contemporary arts scene going at the Fort through outdoor exhibitions and art trails. Book direct throughout the year at www.solasireland.com. Sunset tours, bespoke and group tours are available upon demand, get in touch as info@solasireland.com and experience this unique part of the Wild Atlantic Way just like a local.
