Imogen Stuart honoured in Lorrha

Famous sculptor welcomed to St Ruadhán’s Church

The visit of Imogen Stuart was facilitated by the Heritage sub-committee of Lorrha Development Association to celebrate her magnificent contribution to St Ruadhán’s Church in the picturesque village of Lorrha.

On Sunday, August 14, on a sunny afternoon, resplendent in a royal blue cloak and a classic hat, the stalwart 95-year-old lady made her appearance in St Ruadhán’s Catholic Church, Lorrha, accompanied by her daughter Aisling. Also joining Imogen was the renowned sculptor Niall O’Neill and his wife Annie. Niall designed and carried out the work on the magnificent bronze tabernacle in Lorrha Church.

Greeted by a welcoming round of applause, Imogen took her seat as calmy as if she was in her studio in Sandycove. Glancing left and right and smiling broadly, she seemed to be approving of the great contribution that she and Niall brought to the church in Lorrha.

On arrival, people were handed an illustrated booklet of Imogen’s work. The images had been taken by Michael Molamphy of Coolbawn Cross Photography. The booklet also contains the images of the tabernacle designed by Niall.

Master of Ceremonies Trish Taylor Thompson, an artist in her own right, skillfully led the conversation and interacted with Sr Patrice Coen (sister of local man Tony Coen) and spoke of the Second Vatican Council that had a lasting impact on liturgy. Fr Tom O’Halloran took this wonderful opportunity to make the connection between the striking furniture in the sanctuary and the artist who created it.

A piece of art that is created for a specific location brings many influences together - the cedar wood, the physical features of the furniture and the spiritual elements, for which Imogen is famous. For example, the individual pieces of the ambo are held together with dowels but it is nevertheless solid, able to stand up to wear and tear and has a sturdiness that represents the sturdiness of both the Word of God and the sermon of the priest.

With her German accent still beautifully intact, Imogen spoke about her early life in Germany, her fascination with wood carving prior to coming to Ireland, and how, over seven decades, she mastered her artistry. In St Ruadhán’s church, Imogen is responsible for the carving of the glorious altar, ambo and presider’s chair. These priceless pieces were designed in accordance with the “noble simplicity” called for in the Decree on the Liturgy of the Second Vatican Council.

Giving great credit to Niall O’Neill, she explained how they worked hand in hand to prepare the church for the rededication in 1977. She spoke humbly of her renowned works in various Irish churches and acknowledged the freedom of expression she was afforded. Imogen continues to work in her Co Dublin studio on personal pieces and special commissions.

A beautiful atmosphere was created by the flautist Ann O’Riordan, who set the tone for the event. This was followed by an interesting conversation with Imogen and Niall. Imogen held the audience enthralled by her wit and her many stories, and they hung on her every word.

A poem, 'Hands of an Artist', dedicated to Imogen and composed and recited by local playwright and poet Anne Marie Hough, captured the essence of the artist’s outstanding gift. Presentations were made to Imogen and Niall of framed images of the Dominican Abbey taken by local photographer Roland Dyer. All present were then invited to St Ruadhán’s Community Hall for tea and refreshments. A spectacularly delicious cake was made for the occasion by pastry chef Martina Hough.

This was a real community event made possible by the efforts of so many people – the Parish Pastoral Council and SCEAL. A special word of thanks to the Ken Daly Car Hire, the residents of Lorrha village, who worked so diligently to have the village looking so well; Michelle Hogan, who took charge of catering in the hall, and her team of helpers; traffic controllers, who assisted with parking, and photography on the day was by Gerardine Wisdom.

This event was organised by the Heritage subcommittee of Lorrha Development Association. The sponsors for the event were Tipperary Co Council Heritage section, Lorrha Parish Pastoral Council, St Ruadhán’s Bakes, Redwood Castle, Locus Focus, Videographer Daniel Flynn, DT Powerwashing Services, Lorrha Development Association, the Coen family of Lorrha, Hough family of Lordspark, SCEAL and Hough family, Whitehall.