Flowers, Fields and Wild Goats
When we think about communication in group water schemes, newsletters, websites and social media often come to mind. Yet some of the most effective communication doesn't come through words at all. Sometimes, it becomes a visible part of the community itself.
That is exactly what has happened in Kilnaboy, Co. Clare, where an ordinary roadside pumphouse has been transformed into a striking piece of public art celebrating the landscape, wildlife and heritage of the Burren.
The mural, Flowers, Fields and Wild Goats, was created by artists Anna Podlewska and Nadaa Hyder as part of the Blooming Burren public art project. Featuring native Burren goats, vibrant wildflowers and rolling countryside landscapes, the artwork has turned an everyday piece of water infrastructure into a colourful local landmark.
For local members and visitors alike, it is a reminder that group water schemes are about much more than pipes, pumps and treatment systems. They are community organisations, built and sustained by local people, serving the areas they call home.
Bringing Infrastructure to Life
The mural depicts Burren goats standing among large, colourful flowers, with the gable walls featuring an abstract interpretation of the region's rolling farmland in shades of green and yellow. The artists' aim was simple: to brighten the daily journey of those passing by while celebrating the unique character of the area.
The artwork forms part of the wider Blooming Burren initiative, which began in 2023 and has seen eight artists create murals inspired by the native wildlife of the Burren. Curated by OMG Rewind, an artist collective that connects communities with local creative talent, the project seeks to bring colour and vibrancy to rural villages while showcasing Ireland's artistic talent.
Commissioned by Kilnaboy Tidy Towns and funded through the Clare Arts Office PRISM Street Art Scheme, the mural demonstrates what can be achieved when community groups work together towards a shared vision.
More Than a Mural
Projects like this are valuable not only because they enhance local spaces, but because they help strengthen the connection between a local scheme and its members.
In an era where effective communication and engagement are increasingly important, creative initiatives can help raise awareness of the vital role schemes play in rural communities. They create opportunities for conversation, build local pride and reinforce a sense of ownership among members.
For group water schemes across the country, the Kilnaboy GWS project is a reminder that communication takes many forms. Whether through biodiversity projects, school visits, heritage initiatives, community events or public art, every effort to engage with the local community helps strengthen the relationship between schemes and the people they serve.
Community Engagement in Action
Mark Farrelly, CEO of the National Federation of Group Water Schemes, welcomed the initiative:
This project is a wonderful example of community engagement in action. Kilnaboy GWS is at the heart of its community, and initiatives like this help strengthen local connections while showcasing the pride, volunteer spirit and sense of place that make each scheme unique. Communication is about much more than sharing information. It is about creating a visible and positive presence within the communities group water schemes serve.
The NFGWS congratulates Kilnaboy GWS, Kilnaboy Tidy Towns, the artists involved and everyone who contributed to bringing the project to life.
Have You Done Something Similar?
Across Ireland, group water schemes are finding innovative ways to engage with their communities through biodiversity projects, school visits, heritage initiatives, environmental improvements, community events and public art.
Projects like this highlight the important role group water schemes play in building stronger and more vibrant communities. If your GWS has delivered, or is considering, a similar initiative, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please get in touch with your local NFGWS development officer and share your story.
