The comparison between Celtic goddesses and modern women highlights enduring themes of strength, versatility, and the quest for respect and equality.

THE GODESSES

Brigid- known as the "Exalted One," is a prominent goddess in pre-Christian Irish mythology, associated with the Tuatha Dé Danann. She embodies a triple aspect: goddess of healing (linked to water), goddess of the forge (linked to fire), and goddess of poetry and inspiration. As the daughter of the Dagda, a chief deity, Brigid was revered for her wisdom and nurturing qualities. Her festival, Imbolc, celebrated on February 1st, marks the beginning of spring and the return of light. Brigid's influence was so profound that many of her attributes were later incorporated into the Christian figure of Saint Brigid of Kildare.

The Morrigan, She embodies war, fate, and transformation, and is known for her shape-shifting abilities, frequently appearing as a crow or raven on battlefields. As a triple goddess, she is associated with three sisters—Badb, Macha, and Nemain—each representing different aspects of her complex nature. The Morrígan is both a harbinger of doom and a protector of sovereignty, inspiring warriors and foretelling their destinies.

Cliodhna - pronounced KLEE-nah) is a captivating figure from Irish mythology, revered as a goddess of love, beauty, and the sea. Hailing from the Tuatha Dé Danann, she is often depicted as a radiant woman accompanied by three magical birds whose enchanting songs could heal the sick. Legends tell of her deep love for a mortal named Ciabhán. She left her otherworldly realm to be with him, but their union was short-lived. While Ciabhán was away hunting, Clíodhna was swept back to the sea by a powerful wave summoned by the sea god Manannán Mac Lir. This wave, known as "Tonn Chlíodhna" or "Clíodhna's Wave," is said to crash upon the shores of Glandore, County Cork, to this day. Clíodhna's presence is deeply rooted in Munster folklore. She is associated with sacred sites like Carrigcleena, a rock formation near Mallow believed to be an entrance to the Otherworld. Over time, she became known as the Queen of the Banshees, a fairy woman whose wails foretell death, particularly among noble families. Her tales intertwine themes of love, loss, and the mystical, painting a portrait of a goddess who bridges the mortal world and the ethereal realms.

Each board has a QR code which lead to information on that Goddess, workshops related to her and Kates thought process behind the piece.

Big Brigid.

The Mural on Central Street Bangor looks over the Bryansburn Road, one of the main roads into the City. For this Reason Kate chose to use Brigid as her butterfly wings can be seen as you enter Bangor. The Ogham reads MNA which is Gaelic for woman. Kate said ‘it felt fitting for this brief. The women’s centre wanted more female representation and now WOMAN is the first thing you see’

This project turned into so much more than intially intended. Sharon Machala, a now good friend of the gallery, was heavily involved in the creation of the Goddesses. She has always been interested in Irish Mythology and felt so inspired by the trail she set up Macha Workshops and has been running classes and workshops based on the stories of the Godesses. Workshops such Ironmongery, foraging and fermenting, crafting, sculpting and so much more! More information of these workshops can be found at www.machaworkshops.com

BANLOACH with Kilcooley Womens Centre
The Goddess trail is returning July 25

Image from Imbolc workshop at The Court House run by Macha Workshops