In October 2020 as Ireland returned to tier 3 restrictions, artist William Bock spent a week walking and talking with people of Kilkenny. The week was a period of artistic research supported by The Butler Gallery’s Seed Fund residency. The artist was interested to explore the theme of belonging and landscape in the wake of Covid-19 restrictions and how it might have effected people’s relationship to the outdoor environment. William invited each resident to take him on a route they had a strong connection with. These 1 to 2 hour walks were edited into shorter audio recordings that gives the listens a window into each conversation between the artist and some of the Kilkenny residents he walked with. They share their experience of the land of Kilkenny while reflecting on Ireland’s changing climate and shifting cultural identity. If you are able, you are invited to listen to these recordings while out on the same walking route.
A walk with Pat
A circular walk along the River Nore with Kilkenny city traffic controller and environmental campaigner Pat Boyd. Pat shares his memories of fishing and growing up alongside the river, local biodiversity loss and the touching story of a robins nest.
A walk with Maura
A walk through the heart of Kilkenny City and its lesser known natural spaces with environmental advocate and Forest School teacher, Maura Brennan.
A walk with Michael
A walk through Ballysallagh townland overlooking Kilkenny with forester and actor, Michael Somers. We discuss the rich and complex story of agriculture in Ireland. Our walk takes us over the hills where we stop in for tea with artist couple Eamon Colman and Pauline O’Connell.
A walk with Etaoin
A walk along the river Nore with artist and founder of Fennellys of Callan, Etaoin Holahan.