Local artist and art teacher, Laura Earley from Mullymux, Roscommon, has just published a new book called ‘Roscommon’s Mosaic Tradition – Geometric and Artistic Mosaics in the Northwest’, a documentary photo book exploring the history of Roscommon’s mosaic traditions.
The book was funded by Roscommon County Council with support from the Creative Ireland Programme. Creative Ireland is a five-year Government initiative which places creativity at the centre of public policy.
Many of the mosaics in the book were designed and created by Irish Mosaics, which was founded by John Crean in Roscommon in 1952.
Laura says the book’s main focus is on geometric mosaics found on old shop and pub fronts in the west and northwest.
“The photo book is an exhilarating display of colourful photographs that capture patterns and designs of the 1950s and ‘60s. It features an eloquent introductory text by writer Tom Roseingrave, detailing the trajectory of the project which began in 2018, as well as the history of the industry in Roscommon.
“The book also contains original documents and photographs from those who worked for ‘Irish Mosaics’, and includes references to interviews carried out with local man Sergio Benedetti from Castle Street, who once worked for Irish Mosaics,” she said.
The book is available to buy now at www.lauraearleyart.com, priced at €44.99.
