Poetry as Commemoration team, Evelyn Flanagan, Dr Catherine Wilsdon, and Dr Lucy Collins presenting the poetry archive to University Librarian Dr Sandra Collins.

I am delighted to announce the successful completion of the Poetry as Commemoration project, a journey of creativity, remembrance, and collaboration that has touched many hearts along the way. As we wrap up this significant endeavor, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to its success.

First and foremost, a debt of gratitude is owed to the Dept. of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media for funding Poetry as Commemoration and, in particular, to Muirne Lyons for her guidance and support along the way.

Thank you to all the librarians, archivists, curators, and teachers who generously hosted workshops, providing invaluable spaces for creativity to flourish. Your dedication to fostering artistic expression is truly commendable.

To the remarkable Poetry Ireland facilitators whose passion and expertise guided participants through the poetic process, sparking inspiration at every turn, a heartfelt thanks. To the workshop participants themselves, thank you for sharing your voices, stories, and emotions, enriching this project with your unique perspectives.

I am truly grateful to all of the writers who contributed to the archive — your words have become a poignant tapestry of commemoration adding depth and resonance to our collective narrative. To Jamie Murphy and all of the artists and writers who contributed to the making of Grief’s Broken Brow, you have created a beautiful object that will be appreciated by many generations to come as a legacy of this Decade of Centenaries. Thank you sincerely for sharing your talent, skill, and dedication.

Poetry as Commemoration would not have been possible without our esteemed project partners: Poetry Ireland, Arts Council Northern Ireland, and Quotidian – Word on the Street Ltd. Your support and collaboration have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

To our UCD colleagues, including the UCD Library Executive, the Outreach & Communications team, and the team at MoLI, your unwavering support has been invaluable every step of the way.

Last but certainly not least, I wish to acknowledge the visionary leadership of Evelyn Flanagan, Dr. Lucy Collins, and Ursula Byrne, whose dedication and foresight made this project possible. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such passionate individuals on this important journey of commemoration.

As I reflect on the culmination of the Poetry as Commemoration project, I am filled with gratitude for the countless hands and hearts that have contributed to its success. Together, we have created something truly special, a testament to the power of poetry to commemorate, heal, and unite.

Catherine Wilsdon, Creative Producer.

28th March, 2024.