By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle
The Digital Survey of a Swordsman in the Dungeon was officially launched this evening at Enniscorthy Castle by Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council as part of the ‘Writing on the Wall’ autumnal exhibition.
Cllr Browne said he was delighted to unveil the exhibition and acknowledged that Enniscorthy Castle is home to a rare piece of medieval graffito, incised in the dungeon wall – a one-metre-tall figure with sword in hand and this work of wall art from times past is the centre piece.
Manager Mico Hassett explained that an archaeological report was completed in 2012 and thanks to Heritage Council funding it was recommended a full digital survey of the swordsman figure. “Originally referred to as a Halberdier, the figure is in fact, a swordsman thought to date to the late 16th century. Further funding allowed us to complete the digital survey using 3D laser imaging, 3D photogrammetry and 2D RTI imaging,” she concluded.
Eve Furlong, Deputy Manager of Enniscorthy Castle said; “The 3D print allows us to bring the Swordsman out of the dungeon and into the main exhibition space of the Castle, which creates better accessibility, opportunities for up-close engagement and additional educational materials to be showcased.”
Lisa Byrne, Visual Arts Manager at the Presentation Arts Centre spoke about the popularity of the Enniscorthy Walls Project showcasing wall art or murals that adorn parts of the town and aspects of this project are incorporated into the ‘Writing on the Wall’ which will be open for public viewing at the castle until October 31st.
This evening’s launch is part of the Heritage Week programme and the attendance included Catherine McLoughlin, County Heritage Officer, Deputy Johnny Mythen, Cllrs Barbara-Anne Murphy and Kathleen Codd-Nolan, members of the local media and other invited guests.
Admission to the exhibition is €6 with a family of five just €15, making it a great value proposition for a tour. The full display explores the history of graffiti and wall art from the Neolithic to the present day. The focus on political graffiti, the rise of graffiti in the 80’s and the local Enniscorthy Walls Project offers patrons plenty of insight to graffiti art through the ages from across the world.
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