‘Giant' proclamation grabbing attention at model railway venue

A THREE-metre-high perforated metal version of the 1916 Proclamation of The Irish Republic is certainly grabbing the attention of visitors at the Clonakilty Remembrance Garden in the West Cork Model Railway Village. 

This larger-than-life perforated metal art structure was recently launched and the structure was made by Kinsale-based company Graepel Perforators & Weavers, in partnership with Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage.

‘We are very proud to have been part of this project and we were thrilled to produce such a piece of art to commemorate one of the biggest events in Irish history,’ said Fred Graepel, managing director of Graepel.

‘Its sheer size and structure will ensure it remains intact for many more rising anniversaries to come. Its lasting significance means it will become part of our great grandchildren’s heritage, and their grandchildren’s to follow.’ 

The structure, which is a perfectly legible version of the proclamation, consists of thousands of tiny holes perforated into a metal sheet. It is expected to become a national and international tourist attraction due to its uniqueness and craft form.

Graepels are deeply rooted in Cork history and regularly use their expertise and innovative ideas to develop unique pieces of art to mark some of the county’s most historical events and personalities. The company was recently involved in developing a life-size version of the renowned Kinsale man Patrick Cotter – better known as the Giant of Kinsale – which is now on display in Kinsale Museum.