Artist brings Lough Sheelin legend to life in art book

Oldcastle Artist Kim Gaffney unveiled her debut art book, 'The Story of Orwin & Sebana' at Crover House Hotel, Mountnugent, last week.

Gaffney's debut art book is a captivating blend of artistry and storytelling, offering readers a spellbinding journey to the picturesque landscapes of 17th-century Lough Sheelin. With foreword by playwright and novelist Michael Harding, 'The Story of Orwin and Sebana' weaves a poignant narrative of forbidden love and familial strife within the tumultuous backdrop of the Cromwellian War. Gaffney's exquisite oil paintings breathe life into this legend, harmonising with verses written by local poet Phil O’Connell in the 1800s.

Deputy Niamh Smyth, chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport, and Media, and Cavan TD, officially launched the book.

“Awakening a true Cavan legend to life with this beautifully curated book and bringing Ross Castle and Lough Sheelin to a national stage, Kim committed to months of extensive research and immense creativity to develop this body of work," the deputy stated. "I am thrilled for Kim and her family and for the wider community to see The Story of Orwin & Sebana cherished and embedded into our Irish folklore stories.”

This deluxe first-edition art book spans 60 pages and features a collection of 20 artworks. Its thread-sewn binding, wibalin case, and printed dust cover exemplify the meticulous craftsmanship that went into its creation.

The artist received a Townhall Scholarship from the Cavan Arts Office in January 2023, which supported her local cultural project. Gaffney's artistic quest led her to the shores of Lough Sheelin, a place intertwined with her childhood memories and personal history. Inspired by the lake's beauty and the legendary tale of Orwin and Sebana, Gaffney embarked on a significant artistic journey.

She says: "Lough Sheelin is so much a part of me. I learned to swim there, and we spent many summers on the shore as children. We had family events in Crover House Hotel overlooking the lake, and on a misty November afternoon, this was where I married."

Gaffney's dedication to her community and the preservation of local history and culture shines through in her art. Her research led her to uncover the story of Orwin and Sebana, a legend deeply rooted in the area's history, which had nearly faded into obscurity. The project was further enriched by Gaffney's collaboration with historians and local experts, ensuring an authentic representation of the 1600s.

She visited significant sites, including Crover Castle, Ross Castle, and the grave believed to be the resting place of Orwin and Sebana. These tangible connections to the past allowed her to infuse her artwork with authenticity and emotion.

The art book vividly portrays the story of Orwin and Sebana, lovers who defied the norms of their era, rising above the conflicts that surrounded them. Gaffney's work bridges the gap between the past and the present, ensuring that the tale of Orwin and Sebana lives on for generations.

She developed her body of work by intentionally leaning into a dark and dramatic mood, mirroring the often mysterious aura of the lake. Her colour palette centred on indigos, golds, and blues, with many paintings starting from a fully black canvas and building layers of colour.

These artworks were primarily created using oils on canvas, with some employing an ancient technique called 'encaustic' art, using melted beeswax and pigments. Gaffney's style effortlessly blends elements of tradition with a contemporary touch, creating a collection that bridges the gap between history and modernity.

Her artwork will be showcased at a local exhibit at Ramor Theatre in Virginia, from Friday 13th October to Friday 15th December next.

This cultural project has been made possible through the generous support of Creative Ireland and Cavan County Council, as part of the Creative Ireland initiative.