This artwork, inspired by the ancient Irish tradition of ‘Hunting the Wren’ and the evocative words of Brendan Kennelly’s poem ‘The Wren Boy’, offers a rich, layered interpretation of folklore and music, while encapsulating a moment in the landscape of Irish culture that feels timeless. The composition balances narrative, symbolism, and emotion, making it a vibrant celebration of this unique convergence of art, song, and ritual in Ireland.
The focal point of the painting is a group of four Wrenboys—mysterious figures draped in traditional costumes of straw and rags, their faces half obscured, as if to embody the very spirit of folklore. They are a visual manifestation of both the past and the present, drawn from the ancient custom of going from house to house on St. Stephen’s Day, singing the familiar Wrenboys' song:
“The Wren, the Wren, the King of all birds,
On Christmas Day was caught in the furze,
Up with the kettle and down with the pan,
Give us a penny to bury the wren.”
Numbered & signed
Certificate of authenticity and Artist’s statement.
Limited Edition of 200
Print Size: A3
Paper Type & Weight: Hahnemühle Photo Rag® 380gsm
Print Method: Giclée
Printed by: Rush Digital Printing, Belfast
This artwork, inspired by the ancient Irish tradition of ‘Hunting the Wren’ and the evocative words of Brendan Kennelly’s poem ‘The Wren Boy’, offers a rich, layered interpretation of folklore and music, while encapsulating a moment in the landscape of Irish culture that feels timeless. The composition balances narrative, symbolism, and emotion, making it a vibrant celebration of this unique convergence of art, song, and ritual in Ireland.
The focal point of the painting is a group of four Wrenboys—mysterious figures draped in traditional costumes of straw and rags, their faces half obscured, as if to embody the very spirit of folklore. They are a visual manifestation of both the past and the present, drawn from the ancient custom of going from house to house on St. Stephen’s Day, singing the familiar Wrenboys' song:
“The Wren, the Wren, the King of all birds,
On Christmas Day was caught in the furze,
Up with the kettle and down with the pan,
Give us a penny to bury the wren.”
Numbered & signed
Certificate of authenticity and Artist’s statement.
Limited Edition of 200
Print Size: A3
Paper Type & Weight: Hahnemühle Photo Rag® 380gsm
Print Method: Giclée
Printed by: Rush Digital Printing, Belfast
