Landmark guide seeks to link communities and artists through wetlands

A new Guide produced by the Community Wetlands Forum (CWF) was launched on March 2, aiming to inspire communities across Ireland to engage with native wetlands and support their protection, preservation and promotion.

CWF was established to promote Ireland’s wetlands and peatlands, some 13,000 of which are dotted across the country, through community collaboration and integration. The organisation provides a platform for individuals, groups and specialists to become involved in conservation projects in their local areas.

Titled ‘A Guide for Wetland Communities Engaging in Creative Projects,’ the publication features the work of nineteen artists and creatives whose practice centres on Ireland’s rich necklace of wetlands. It is the first guide of its kind.

Volunteer Chair of CWF, Leitrim woman Mary Mulvey, explained how the idea developed. “We’ve had quite a lot of artists who are members of Community Wetlands Forum,” she said, noting that membership is open to everyone, from individuals and community groups to colleges, specialists and artists. She said the project was created to help bridge the gap between communities and artists in support of wetlands.

The guide is viewed as an important step in bringing people together around a shared purpose with ecological, societal and cultural benefits. “We feel it's a pathway to get people interested in the wetlands whether it’s citizen science, the arts, photography, or kids doing recording,” said Mary. 

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She also highlighted the wide range of uses associated with wetland and peatland landscapes and suggested they are often underrated.

“Peatlands are emotionally and politically charged terrains, sites of climate transition, contested histories, livelihoods, restoration and loss. They are fragile ecosystems as well as living places and work in these environments must consider environmental impact, biodiversity and the cultural significance of the land.

“Creative projects can help make sense of these complexities, but without care they can also risk oversimplifying or misrepresenting them,” explained Mary.

At its core, the initiative aims to spark interest in wetlands, encouraging further projects that promote conservation, raise awareness and foster appreciation of both the landscapes and the communities and artists connected to them.

Launching the guide, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, said, “I am delighted to launch ‘A Guide for Wetland Communities Engaging in Creative Projects’. We know that wetlands are some of the most valuable ecosystems for biodiversity.

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“For those who appreciate the wonders of nature, this guide will create connections and collaboration with communities and artists, helping to bring the beauty, fragility and significance of wetlands to life. I’d like to congratulate the Community Wetlands Forum and all involved in the creation of this important resource,” he added.

Community Wetlands Forum is open to new members. More information is available at communitywetlandsforum.ie.

‘A Guide for Wetland Communities Engaging in Creative Projects’ can also be accessed here.