AN interactive art project exploring cultural heritage and the environment is coming to Myross Wood near Leap, writes Martin Steinmetz.

Visitors to the ancient woodland can soon explore a site-specific soundwalk, created by artist David Bickley at the Centre of Excellence for Climate Action and Sustainability (CECAS). Whispers From the Celtic Grove consists of nine soundscapes inspired by Ogham, the Celtic tree alphabet, and includes tales and mythology from the area.

David said: ‘My intention was to craft an immersive experience that resonates with memory, myth, and landscape - abstracted into sound and atmosphere rather than literal representation. I hope this work inspires curiosity and reverence for Ireland’s natural heritage, reminding us that stories and places are deeply intertwined.’

The trail features listening posts near nine native trees, such as rowan, oak, alder, hazel, birch and ash. Whispers From the Celtic Grove also includes a digital archive accessible via QR codes. Members of the community of all ages, as well as experts from various fields contributed voice recordings and stories to the soundwalk.

Among the contributors were students from Union Hall National School, the Union Hall Active Retired group, ecologist Mark Robins, folklorist Conor Ó Buachalla and herbalist Helen Morgan, all connected with CECAS. The narrative, scripted by local writer David Forsythe and voiced by RTÉ presenter Aidan Stanley, guides visitors through the woods.

David said the artwork was made to invite people to listen, pause and rediscover the quiet wisdom of the trees. Whispers From the Celtic Grove launches on December 7th at the CECAS Christmas Market and will tour festivals in 2026.