Máiréad Holohan is an artist from Kilkenny, based in the Blackstairs Mountains and her practice is deeply informed by the ecology of her surroundings.

Through a routine of walking and looking, she is drawn to the idea of the ruderal – a plant that takes over areas impacted by human disturbance such as agriculture, habitation and construction. She is specifically interested in the “the things that survive in the cracks” where the natural environment reclaims the manmade stone walls in this local area. This juncture, between the ecological and the human, presents a rich and ancient history that demonstrates the resilience of flora in adapting to these built boundaries.

Máiréad has an eco-friendly practice and uses environmentally kind materials; she is a specialist in natural inks and dyes, creating these from plants in her locality.

For Culture Night, the Tea Houses will host a late opening of the exhibition Closer Look, offering visitors the opportunity to meet Máiréad Holohan and learn more about her practice and the ideas behind the exhibition.