NATURE, art and technology are combined in a spectacular fashion on Co Offaly boglands, where environmental artist Brandon Ballengée is exhibiting his latest work.
Love Motel for Insectshas proved an irresistible attraction to an abundance of flies, moths and beetles on the Lough Boora sculpture parklands.
The installation consists of 24 light units measuring almost 31m (100ft) in length. The canvas-fronted units employ black ultraviolet lights, similar to the lighting used in electric insect zappers, to attract nocturnal insects. Once illuminated, the exhibit draws a vast array of nocturnal creatures from the surrounding parklands. The creatures can then be studied on the canvas.
An ongoing international exhibition, the installation has been placed on boats in Venice, in rainforests, the Scottish Highlands and German city centres. Ballengée describes his exhibit as a “collaboration with nature”.
The exhibition takes place as part of Lough Boora’s artist in residence programme on the 20-hectare (50-acre) sculpture park. The programme is supported by Bord na Móna, Offaly County Council and the Heritage Council.
Ballengée has been taking members of the public on night tours of the installation. The tours continue this Wednesday, July 28th, to Friday, July 30th inclusive. For information visit www.sculptureintheparklands.com