Waterford creative group's talent shines through in biodiverse way

There was reason to celebrate in Waterford's, Central Library, over the last few weeks thanks to the inherent talent of one of the groups who operate from there.

The multi-talented ‘Fáilte Craft Club’ won 1st place in the adult craft category of this year's Dungarvan Agricultural Show for a blanket made by the group members.

Facilitated by Hilary Keane, the group created a striking biodiversity awareness blanket, designed to spotlight the alarming 69 per cent decline in global biodiversity over the past 30 years or more due to the impact of climate change.

The blanket design was inspired by the biodiversity stripes developed by Professor Miles Richardson, of Derby University. The colour-coded stripes visually depict biodiversity loss, transitioning from vibrant greens in the 1970s to dull greys by the 2000s.

Crafted from donated wool, the blanket also featured needle felted birds created from black sheep wool, symbolising species lost or endangered during this period.

A powerful piece, the blanket helped raised awareness of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on climate action (SDG 13) and life on land (SDG 15), through the medium of community art and craft. 

The blanket will be on display at Central Library during European Sustainable Development Week, which will run from September 18 to October 8.

In addition to the group win, individuals involved with the group also won prizes in various other craft categories at the show in Dungarvan.

This culturally diverse craft group meets every Wednesday at 10am in Central Library. 

The group encourages social connection and conversation through a shared passion for meaningful knitting and crocheting projects and individual pieces.

For more details please call Central Library on 051 849975.