An Irish wind farm’s 2025 calendar features a stunning winning photograph capturing the juxtaposition of Ireland’s past and future. The image, selected from a photo contest held by Bord na Móna at its Mountlucas Wind Farm, showcases a unique blend of natural beauty and renewable energy.
The winning photo,taken by Finbar Redmond,a regular participant in the Mountlucas parkrun,depicts a scene of serene winter beauty. The image graces both the cover and the October page of the calendar.
Redmond captured the image in January, around New Year’s Day. His winning entry beautifully encapsulates the essence of the wind farm’s location. When describing his work, Redmond stated, “The bog oak in the foreground is the history and past of the bog and the wind turbines in the background are the future. I like the winter moody sky and winter light in the scene.”
The Mountlucas Wind Farm calendar competition highlights the growing interest in showcasing the aesthetic appeal of renewable energy projects. This initiative not only celebrates local talent but also promotes the visual harmony between nature and sustainable energy solutions,a theme increasingly relevant in the United States as the nation transitions towards cleaner energy sources.
The success of this competition mirrors similar initiatives across the globe, demonstrating a growing appreciation for the visual impact of wind farms and their integration into the landscape. The striking imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty that can be found in renewable energy.
This story underscores the potential for creative collaborations between energy companies and local artists, fostering a sense of community and showcasing the positive aspects of renewable energy development. The winning photograph serves as a testament to the power of art to highlight the beauty and promise of a sustainable future.
Mountlucas parkrun: Festive 5K Fun Before the Holidays
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Get ready for some festive fun! The Mountlucas parkrun, a free weekly timed 5k event held every Saturday at 9:30 AM sharp at the windfarm, is gearing up for its final run before Christmas. This year’s pre-holiday event, taking place on Saturday, December 21st, promises to be extra special.
The parkrun offers a fantastic opportunity for runners of all levels to participate in a amiable and supportive community event. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting your fitness journey, you’re welcome to join the fun. “Saturday 21st December will be the last Mountlucas parkrun before Christmas so is sure to be a special one. All are welcome!” organizers announced.
Beyond the run itself, the Mountlucas parkrun fosters a strong sense of community. A recent event saw participants receive a special calendar, courtesy of Bord na Móna, featuring a photo of local runners Mary Dunne and Mary Rowan, along with Finbar, proudly displaying their Mountlucas parkrun milestone t-shirts. This highlights the dedication and camaraderie that defines this unique event.
so,lace up your running shoes and join the Mountlucas parkrun for a memorable pre-Christmas experience. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the season and enjoy the beauty of the Irish countryside (while getting some exercise!). Remember, the event is free and open to all fitness levels. See you there!
Discover Ireland’s Mountlucas parkrun: A Global Running Community
For runners seeking a unique global experience, the Mountlucas parkrun in Ireland offers a vibrant community and scenic course. This weekly 5k event, part of a worldwide network, provides a welcoming atmosphere for participants of all levels.
Taking place every Saturday morning, the Mountlucas parkrun offers a chance to explore the Irish countryside while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow runners. The event is free to participate in,fostering inclusivity and making it accessible to everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-time runner, the Mountlucas parkrun provides a supportive environment to achieve personal fitness goals. The event’s emphasis on community building makes it a rewarding experience beyond just the physical activity.
learn more about the Mountlucas parkrun and register for your next run by visiting www.parkrun.ie/mountlucas.
Published: December 14, 2024, 7:44 PM EST
Renewable Energy and Artistic Visions: A Chat with Dr. Fiona O’Neill
Ireland’s Mountlucas Wind Farm recently held a photography competition that resulted in a stunning calendar showcasing the beauty amidst its turbines. We sat down with Dr. Fiona O’Neill, a specialist in the intersection of renewable energy and social perception, to discuss this unique initiative and its broader implications.
Dr. O’Neill, can you tell us a bit about the importance of this photography competition held by Bord na Móna at the mountlucas Wind Farm?
This competition is a fantastic example of how we can bridge the gap between techonology and community engagement.Wind energy, while crucial for a sustainable future, can sometimes face resistance due to perceived impacts on landscapes. By inviting local photographers to capture the beauty of the wind farm and its surroundings,Bord na Móna is not only promoting a sense of ownership but also showcasing the aesthetic harmony that renewable energy can create.
The winning photograph by Finbar Redmond beautifully juxtaposes a bog oak, representing the past, with the wind turbines symbolizing the future. This image has generated quite a buzz. Why do you think this particular photograph resonated so strongly?
I believe Redmond’s photograph successfully encapsulates the core message of the transition to renewable energy. It’s not about erasing the past but rather about integrating new technologies into our existing landscapes in a thoughtful and respectful manner. The contrasting elements in the photograph— the ancient bog oak and the modern turbines— create a powerful visual metaphor for the balance between tradition and progress.
How do you see initiatives like this photography competition informing public perception of renewable energy projects,particularly in countries like the United States where wind farm growth can be contentious?
Visual storytelling is incredibly powerful.By sharing images that challenge preconceived notions and highlight the aesthetic value of these projects, we can foster a more positive and informed conversation about renewable energy.
when communities see these projects integrated into their landscapes in a beatiful and harmonious way, it can definitely help dispel some of the fears and misconceptions surrounding them.
Dr. O’Neill, what’s your broader outlook on the role of art and creativity in the advancement of sustainable development?
I believe art has a crucial role to play in shaping our collective understanding of sustainability. It allows us to move beyond dry facts and statistics and connect with the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of these challenges. By engaging with art, we can foster a deeper thankfulness for the natural world and inspire action towards a more sustainable future.
