Arts and Culture, News

Vandalism and theft mar Loughnaneane Park art trail after successful Culture Night event

Written by Roscommon People Reporter on

More in Arts and Culture:

Last weekend’s Art in the Open Public Art Trail at Loughnaneane Park, a highlight of Culture Night, celebrated public art, nature, and local creativity. The event featured four unique, temporary installations by artists Helen Duncan, Maria Mollohan, Nickie Harrington, and Christina Carty, organised by Roscommon County Council Arts Office. The works—‘Begin Again,’ ‘In Light of Us,’ ‘Echo Zone,’ and ‘Threshold of Inspiration’—explored themes of resilience, place, and inspiration through interactive and immersive displays.

Friday’s event was a resounding success, fostering connection, curiosity, and community engagement.

One artist reflected, “It was such a privilege to be among fellow artists, all of us united by a shared commitment to public art and creative expression. There was a real sense of collective support and camaraderie throughout the evening — a feeling of being part of something greater than ourselves. It reminded me how vital and powerful public art can be, not just for artists, but for the community that engages with it. I was deeply moved by the warmth, support and sense of wonder from those who joined the public art trail tour and came to the park. The way people engaged with and responded to our pieces made it feel like a genuine exchange, something shared, something alive.”

Unfortunately, between Friday night and Sunday afternoon, several installations were deliberately vandalised, damaged, or stolen. The Gardaí have launched a criminal damage investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Roscommon Garda Station at 090 66 38300 or visit Abbey Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, F42 HN32.