Bealtaine 2026: ‘The Memory Keep’ Showcase – Together Preserving Life’s Chapters in Fabric and Thread at the Tudor Artisan Hub
A unique and heartfelt exhibition celebrating memory, creativity, and community will go on display this May at the Tudor Artisan Hub in Carrick-on-Suir. ‘The Memory Keep’, running from May 5th to 16th as part of the Bealtaine Festival 2026, brings together a collection of handcrafted textile pieces that transform personal histories into tactile works of art.
The showcase is the result of months of collaboration led by Hub owner Linda Fahy, alongside creative practitioner Sheila Wood and felt-maker Liz Martin. Since January, the team has worked closely with Hub makers and members of the local community, sharing their vision through outreach initiatives, including a Dementia Awareness event hosted by the Carrick-on-Suir Lions Club in association with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
"Our aim was to introduce an accessible, sustainable way to preserve memories through sensory crafting," says Linda. "Using only upcycled fabrics and the philosophy that there is no wrong stitch, we created a space where anyone, regardless of skill set, could weave their story into thread."
The exhibition will feature over 50 individual pieces created by nearly 30 participants, each reflecting personal stories, cherished moments, and lived experiences. Through specialised felting workshops led by Liz Martin and guided memory composition sessions with Sheila Wood, participants explored new creative skills while sharing stories in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The Tudor Artisan Hub became a space where seasoned makers and complete beginners connected over cups of tea, laughter, and shared reflection. The project has grown into an intergenerational initiative, bringing new life to old photographs and long-held memories through the textures of fabric and thread. For many involved, the process became more than a creative exercise. It offered a gentle, hands-on way to reconnect with loved ones and honour those no longer present. From childhood homes and treasured gardens to beloved pets and milestone celebrations, each piece acts as a sensory keepsake, something that can be held, touched, and passed down through generations.
“This project gave people a way to hold onto their memories in a completely new and meaningful way,” said Linda. “It’s been incredibly special to see stories come to life through fabric and to watch connections grow within the Memory Keep circle.”
Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to experience these poignant works firsthand and explore the stories woven into each piece. Makers Sheila Wood and Liz Martin will also be present at the Hub on select days throughout the exhibition, offering insight into the creative process and encouraging others to discover the thread of their own stories.
‘The Memory Keep’ showcase will be on display upstairs at the Tudor Artisan Hub, 42 Main Street, Carrick-on-Suir, from May 5th to 16th. Group bookings are welcome.
A unique and heartfelt exhibition celebrating memory, creativity, and community will go on display this May at the Tudor Artisan Hub in Carrick-on-Suir. ‘The Memory Keep’, running from May 5th to 16th as part of the Bealtaine Festival 2026, brings together a collection of handcrafted textile pieces that transform personal histories into tactile works of art.
The showcase is the result of months of collaboration led by Hub owner Linda Fahy, alongside creative practitioner Sheila Wood and felt-maker Liz Martin. Since January, the team has worked closely with Hub makers and members of the local community, sharing their vision through outreach initiatives, including a Dementia Awareness event hosted by the Carrick-on-Suir Lions Club in association with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
"Our aim was to introduce an accessible, sustainable way to preserve memories through sensory crafting," says Linda. "Using only upcycled fabrics and the philosophy that there is no wrong stitch, we created a space where anyone, regardless of skill set, could weave their story into thread."
The exhibition will feature over 50 individual pieces created by nearly 30 participants, each reflecting personal stories, cherished moments, and lived experiences. Through specialised felting workshops led by Liz Martin and guided memory composition sessions with Sheila Wood, participants explored new creative skills while sharing stories in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The Tudor Artisan Hub became a space where seasoned makers and complete beginners connected over cups of tea, laughter, and shared reflection. The project has grown into an intergenerational initiative, bringing new life to old photographs and long-held memories through the textures of fabric and thread. For many involved, the process became more than a creative exercise. It offered a gentle, hands-on way to reconnect with loved ones and honour those no longer present. From childhood homes and treasured gardens to beloved pets and milestone celebrations, each piece acts as a sensory keepsake, something that can be held, touched, and passed down through generations.
“This project gave people a way to hold onto their memories in a completely new and meaningful way,” said Linda. “It’s been incredibly special to see stories come to life through fabric and to watch connections grow within the Memory Keep circle.”
Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to experience these poignant works firsthand and explore the stories woven into each piece. Makers Sheila Wood and Liz Martin will also be present at the Hub on select days throughout the exhibition, offering insight into the creative process and encouraging others to discover the thread of their own stories.
‘The Memory Keep’ showcase will be on display upstairs at the Tudor Artisan Hub, 42 Main Street, Carrick-on-Suir, from May 5th to 16th. Group bookings are welcome.
This project is part of the Bealtaine Age & Opportunity Arts initiative, funded by The Arts Council and the HSE, and supported by Tipperary County Council Arts Office.
For more information or to book a group, contact Linda Fahy at 086 2560609, email tudorartisanhub@gmail.com, or visit the Tudor Artisan Hub in person.
