Derry children turn local myths into striking oak tree artwork

Children from five local primary schools have come together with Féile to explore the origins of the oak tree in Derry’s history through storytelling and art.

Young people from Nazareth House PS, Fountain PS, St Eugene’s PS, Long Tower PS and Gaelscoil Éadain Mhóir took part in Our Shared Roots, working with storyteller Peter Heaney and artist Sinéad Crumlish.

Through a series of workshops, the children heard local myths and legends and learned about the importance of the oak tree in the city’s history, including its links to Colmcille and the early origins of Derry.

Each child then created their own oak leaf, reflecting their own ideas about heritage and belonging, which now forms a beautiful oak tree.

Féile’s Eibhlin Morrison, Project Co-ordinator, said it had been “fantastic” to see the young people coming together to celebrate their shared heritage.

She said: “It’s been fantastic to see children from different schools coming together and exploring our shared heritage in such a creative and hands-on way.

“They’ve been learning about local myths and the importance of the oak tree in the history of the city where they live, but also bringing their own ideas and creativity to bring those stories to life.

“Féile would like to thank all the schools who took part, and Peter and Sinéad who were brilliant with the children and really brought the workshops to life."

The young people’s art is now on display in the garden of Aras Cholmcille - St. Columba Heritage Centre on Long Tower Street, and everyone is welcome to visit.