A May Day walk with rhyme and reason

Bailieborough is set to celebrate Poetry Day Ireland with a sparkling combination of of poetry and photography.

Artist Suella Wynne and poet Máiread Donnellan will be on hand this Thursday, May 1 to guide participants on the walk and workshop. The experience aims to blend photography, poetry, and discussion to explore the themes of May Day.

The day kicks off at 1.45pm at Bailieborough Library, where participants will be introduced to smartphone photography techniques, followed by a discussion on the significance of May Day — its rich traditions, symbolism, and personal meanings.

Then, it’s time to step outside for a scenic Photo Walk, led by Suella Wynne, where participants will capture images of the landscape that reflect the spirit of May Day. This Photo Walk encourages participants to engage deeply with their surroundings, seeking out imagery that speaks to the themes of the day.

A photographic artist known for her emotional and therapeutic photography, Suella explores difficult subjects through imagery and stitching. Her work offers a unique way of non-verbally communicating complex emotions.

Poetry

Following the walk, Máiread Donnellan will lead the Poetry Workshop, inviting participants to create original poems based on their captured images and reflections.

An award-winning poet, Máiread’s work has appeared in numerous literary magazines and anthologies, and she has been featured on RTÉ Radio 1. She has won national awards, including the Francis Ledwidge and the Trocaire/Poetry Ireland Awards, and was the Poet Laureate for Bailieborough in 2021 as part of the Poetry Town initiative.

This interactive workshop is an opportunity to experiment with poetic forms and explore new ways to express creativity. The day will conclude with a Poetry Showcase and Readings at 6:30pm at Bailieborough Library, where a slideshow of selected photographs will be displayed alongside readings of the participants’ poems. The event will also feature poetry readings from the workshop participants (optional) and Máiread Donnellan, as well as performances from Paddy Halligan and other local poets, reinforcing the power of community through the written and spoken word.

Registration

The Poetry Photo Walk and Workshop is free but limited to 12 participants and you must be 18 or over. Early booking is recommended via Eventbrite.com.

The Poetry Showcase and Readings are free to attend and open to the public, with no booking required. Whether you're a local or a visitor, come together with fellow creatives for an afternoon of reflection, inspiration, and community.

This event is supported by Poetry Ireland / Éigse Éireann’s Bright Ideas Bursary, Bailieborough Library, Cavan Arts, Bealtaine Festival and is run in association with Bailieborough Creative Hub.