Brian O’ Lynn

After a few years of working together, Leitrim-based visual artist and ceramicist, Kate Murtagh-Sheridan and myself launched a series of fresco paintings, prints and a beautifully illustrated book which brings the story of Brian O’Lynn alive. Brian O’Lynn is a character from a song that was sung in Leitrim many years ago but can be traced back as far as the 1500s. The story involves a comical but resourceful man who gets himself into situations but always finds a quick solution.

This particular song can be found in various versions throughout the English-speaking world.However in this work we rooted the character, Brian O’Lynn, in Leitrim as his rhymes have been sung in the area for many years, including in 1950’s recordings of Mohill ballad singer, Thomas Moran and other references in local publications. Through the QR link on the book, people are guided to the singing of the song, as recorded by me to accompany each verse/fresco. The book and art works were launched in the Leitrim Design House and the book is on sale in various bookshops and from our website