We live in an age in which it is easy to feel disconnected. The uncertainty and confinement of recent months has made many of us feel more isolated. Others have felt a strong need to ground themselves, to spend time in nature, to grow, bake or make. It is often in these simple ways that we reconnect with the natural world and what matters most. While individually we stand two meters apart, we are far from alone; each of us is a family member, a friend, a neighbour. We have begun to realise that we are part of a complex web of people across the globe – each vulnerable to illness or catastrophe. We also hold responsibility, to ensure what we do will not negatively impact others. While individual, we are not separate.

small spaces of silence in between borrowed breaths arms tighten at the whisper of a name – Eileen Carney Hulme ‘Belonging’

Connection is possibly the deepest need of human beings. For most of our evolutionary history, humans lived very differently than we do now. People lived collectively within a community; it was uncommon to live alone. People hunted, foraged, or grew most of their food, giving them an understanding of natural cycles. These closer relationships weren’t perfect, but people had a sense of interdependence, community, and belonging.

As we emerge from our homes into a changed world, this project celebrates our collective solidarity, connectivity, resilience and creativity. CONNECTED reminds us of the importance and fragility of our human connections, with family, friends and wider global society. It also reflects on our deep interconnection with the natural world which each generation holds in trust for the next.

Designed as an external exhibition CONNECTED allows audiences to re-connect with culture and craft, outside of a museum setting. Recognised as the home of craft and design in Ireland, this new sculpture trail opens up heritage gardens at the heart of Kilkenny city, and encourages us to rediscover our city through fresh eyes. Beginning from the courtyard of Castle Yard and lush Butler House Gardens, the exhibition trail leads you through the cities key cultural and historic sites from Kilkenny Castle Park to Medieval Mile, Butler Gallery at Evan’s Home to Rothe House. The exhibition will be accompanied by self-directed workshops and activities for all ages.