Across Ancient Waters: A Journey Through Ireland’s History

Across Ancient Waters: A Journey Through Ireland’s History

My latest sculpture, Across Ancient Waters, draws inspiration from one of Ireland’s most ancient and significant forms of transport: the Irish log boat. This piece captures the essence of community and survival in a time when waterways were vital lifelines across a challenging landscape. Accompanied by a heartfelt poem, the sculpture and verse together aim to honour the resilience of our ancestors and the enduring connection between people and nature.

The Legacy of the Irish Log Boat

Log boats, or dugout canoes, are among the oldest watercrafts in the world, and Ireland has a rich history tied to these vessels. Archaeological evidence suggests they were used as far back as 4,000 years ago, with some of the oldest surviving examples discovered in bogs and lakes across the country. Carved from a single tree trunk, often oak, these boats were simple yet remarkably effective for navigating Ireland's lakes, rivers, and shallow coastal waters.

In ancient Ireland, travel by land was arduous, as thick forests and uneven terrain made journeys slow and difficult. The waterways offered a faster and more efficient means of transportation. Log boats were essential for fishing, trade, and connecting communities. They were also used during ceremonial occasions, as suggested by the discovery of boats alongside other artifacts in ancient burial sites.

One remarkable discovery is the Lurgan Canoe, found in County Galway, dating to approximately 4,500 years ago. At nearly 50 feet long, this log boat reveals the impressive craftsmanship of early Irish societies and their reliance on such vessels for daily survival and spiritual rituals.

Symbolism in Across Ancient Waters

This sculpture features three copper wire figures seated in a hand-carved wooden log boat, set atop a rippling base that symbolizes the movement of water. The three figures represent community and collaboration, vital qualities in early Ireland where survival often depended on collective effort. The copper wire adds a modern yet timeless touch, blending past and present, while the boat itself reflects the endurance of cultural memory.

The poem I’ve written to accompany this piece brings to life the connection between these early travelers and the journey of life itself. It speaks of resilience, unity, and the ability to move forward together, even through challenges.

 

Across Ancient Waters
 
Beneath the arch of times embrace,
A vessel moves with humble grace.
Through Ireland’s lands of rugged green,
Where paths were scarce, and waters keen.
 
The log boat carried both kin and trade,
Across the depths our hands had made.
Each stroke, a story, each ripple, a call
Of unity binding us, one and all.
 
For life is a journey across ancient streams,
Of laughter, of labour and of shared dreams.
Together we row, through calm and strife,
Across ancient waters, the river of life.
 
By – Ashley Curran

Why This Story Matters

By reflecting on the Irish log boat, we gain insight into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors. In their hands, simple tools and materials became lifelines, connecting isolated communities and enabling trade and growth. Today, as we face our own modern challenges, the spirit of resilience and adaptability symbolized by these ancient vessels continues to inspire us.

Experience Across Ancient Waters

This sculpture is more than an art piece; it’s a reminder of where we come from and how far we’ve journeyed together. Through its design and accompanying poem, it invites us to reflect on the strength found in unity and the timeless connection between humanity and the natural world.

What do you see in Across Ancient Waters? I’d love to hear your thoughts and interpretations. Let’s celebrate the beauty of Ireland’s heritage and the stories it continues to tell us today.

 

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