‘Beacon of Light’ marks the reopening of the Round Tower in Kildare Town after more than a year of meticulous renovation and cleaning. Presented within this unique and historic space, the exhibition celebrates Brigid — both saint and goddess — whose presence continues to inspire across generations. 

For this installation, original artworks have been reimagined as transparent, stained-glass–inspired pieces, printed onto plexiglass. Set within the Round Tower’s nine windows, each work offers a distinct vision of Brigid, embodying her power, resilience, and kindness. As daylight filters through, the images become illuminated, transforming the Round Tower into a radiant beacon of inspiration and compassion.

Above, a roof installation portrays The King Oak — one of Ireland’s largest and most iconic oak trees, located near Tullamore. This work evokes the sensation of standing beneath a great oak canopy, forging a symbolic link to Cill Dara — “the Church of the Oak” — the ancient name for Kildare where St Brigid founded her monastery beside a sacred oak. 

The ascent to the summit forms part of the experience. As visitors climb the tower’s narrow and steep 108-foot staircase, the wind grows in strength. At the top, the full force of the elements are revealed, amplifying the connection between nature, history, and place. Through the interplay of light, space, and imagery, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on Brigid’s role as a unifying symbol in Irish heritage, and the enduring relevance of the values she represents today. 

‘Invoke’

             

‘Solas’

‘St. Brigid’s Cathedral Kildare Town’