Getting to the art of the matter

The 2011 Iniscealtra Arts Festival was officially opened last Saturdayby civil and human rights activist, Joycean scholar and presidential candidate, Senator David Norris.
Senator Norris entertained the large audience who attended the launch at St Caimin’s Church of Ireland and proved the ideal speaker for a festival exploring the theme of Voice.
Senator Norris was followed by the artistic voice of performance artist, Nigel Rolfe.
Mr Rolfe, a visiting professor of fine art from London’s Royal College and Dublin resident since 1974, quickly shifted the audience’s attention from the wit and festive charm of Senator Norris to deliver a challenging piece of work that will long linger in the memories of those who experienced it.
Meanwhile, Ennis a cappella quartet, Chill showcased their voices at the beginning and end of the event, delighting the audience with their fresh and romantic songs.
The opening marks the 16th year of the Iniscealtra Festival of Art and this year’s line-up aims to exceed the efforts of previous years through its programme of events.
The second of the festival weekends continues this weekend and will see the continuation of art exhibitions arts at the Aistear building, the Derg Gallery and the Snug Café.
Mountshannon will host a large choral event this ­Saturday entitled  The ­Singing of Angels, which will bring together a large chorus of singers from East Clare and beyond under the tutelage of musical director, Sian Croose.
The bank holiday weekend promises further festivities and activities in ­Mountshannon with the annual Green Fair at the Aistear forming the venue for a most spectacular once-off event, where a 30ft Welsh Giant, the mythical Bran the Blessed, will arrive on the shores of Lough Derg on Sunday afternoon.
This is the biggest talking puppet ever seen in the area and he will take to the streets, with local schoolchildren and choirs accompanying him to the harbour in a parade of street theatre and fun.
The parade itself kicks off at 3pm at The Aistear and Mountshannon Main Street will be closed temporarily for the parade to take place. Meanwhile, on Sunday night, there will be an opportunity to dance to the great Klezmer sound of Dublin’s North Strand Kontra Band and to the eclectic mix of world music from the highly acclaimed Ruaille Buaille DJs.
Bank Holiday Monday has more exciting treats in store as The Mad Hatter’s Tea party takes place that afternoon in the Aistear, where costumes will be aplenty and activities such as cake decorating, pony rides and storytelling with Eddie Lennihan will delight all the children and grown-ups alike.
For those who would prefer to enjoy a more relaxing and traditional round-up to the festival, the annual traditional singing session, led by Robbie McMahon, takes place at Keane’s Bar on Monday at 2.30pm.
More information is available by visiting www.iniscealtra-artsfestival.org