The Reason of Towns – Talks of the Town (Belmullet)

This one-day public programme is presented as part of The Reason of Towns, a touring exhibition with architect Valerie Mulvin, curated by the Irish Architecture Foundation. Explore Belmullet, Co. Mayo in a new way as we share stories, histories and discuss Belmullet as a sustainable town of the future.

All events are free. Booking is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Booking is available through the exhibition venue, Áras Inis Gluaire.

1. Exhibition Tour and Town Walking Tour, Friday 16 August, 11:00-12:30. Meet at Áras Inis Gluaire.

Join architect Valerie Mulvin for an in-person tour of The Reason of Towns exhibition and find out more about the role of architects, town planners and local communities in shaping the form and function of Irish towns, past, present and future. The exhibition tour will be followed by a conversational walk through the streets of Belmullet, Co. Mayo with Mulvin and local architect Mark Ruddy.

2. Town Workshop – Toward a Future for Belmullet, Friday 16 August, 14:30-17:00, Áras Inis Gluaire

In this two-part conversational workshop facilitated by Ali Warner, participants will share stories, discuss town life and be part of an informed and productive discussion toward a sustainable future for Belmullet.

3. Conversation – Belmullet and the Irish Town, Friday 16 August, 19:00-20:30, Áras Inis Gluaire

The day concludes with some new films, live-readings and great conversation about Belmullet and the Irish town as a form of national culture, pride and potential. Architect Valerie Mulvin and other guest speakers will explore the wider relevance, potential and particularities of town living in Ireland against a backdrop of national policy and collective narratives.