Unveiling 'The Murmur of Bees': An Enchanting Exploration of Bee Influence at National Museum of Ireland

 Unveiling 'The Murmur of Bees': An Enchanting Exploration of Bee Influence at National Museum of Ireland

In a celebration of nature's diligent pollinators, the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life is gearing up to launch a captivating exhibition titled 'The Murmur of Bees.' Opening its doors on February 8, this exhibition promises to delve into the fascinating influence of bees on our culture and environment, spanning centuries of intertwined history.

Step into the enchanting realm of 'The Murmur of Bees,' an upcoming exhibition at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life. Set to open on February 8, this immersive experience invites visitors to explore the profound impact of bees on our cultural tapestry and the natural world.

Dating from the 18th century to the present day, the exhibition boasts a curated collection of objects that showcase the integral role of bees in shaping Ireland's rich heritage. A standout piece is a drawing by the renowned artist Harry Clarke, featuring St. Gobnait, the Irish patron saint of bees. On loan from the Corning Museum of Glass in New York, this drawing served as the template for a stained-glass window in the Honan Chapel, Cork.

The exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the centuries, featuring specimens of Ireland's 100+ bee species, bee specimens from around the world, nests, honeycomb, and dioramas that offer a rare and close-up view into the hidden world of bees. A mesmerizing section presents a 200-year-old honeycomb, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Rare editions and artifacts, such as the 'Instructions for Managing Bees (1733),' on loan from the Royal Irish Academy, highlight the historical practices of beekeeping in Ireland. Additionally, the exhibition showcases straw skeps from the national folklife collection, a 1950s wooden beehive crafted by apiarist John Gallagher from Co. Fermanagh, and captivating footage of beekeepers at work in the 1960s, courtesy of RTÉ.

A specially commissioned wooden bee nest, measuring 1m x 1m, promises visitors a unique insight into the highly organized and structured world inhabited by bees. The exhibition features the Garden Bumblebee 'Bombus hortorum' painting by Shevaun Doherty, which inspired an An Post stamp collection on native Irish bees.

As more beekeeping groups flourish across the country, 'The Murmur of Bees' is poised to captivate audiences with its celebration of bees' wide-ranging influence. Join us on this immersive journey into the heart of nature's tireless workers, exploring the enchanting world of bees and their enduring impact on Irish culture and beyond.

FAQs:

1. What is the theme of the exhibition 'The Murmur of Bees' at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life?
2. What objects and artifacts will be featured in the exhibition, and how do they showcase the influence of bees?
3. What notable artworks and historical editions are on display, and what stories do they tell about beekeeping in Ireland?
4. How does the exhibition provide a close-up view of the unseen world of bees, and what specimens are included?
5. When is the official launch of 'The Murmur of Bees,' and why is it expected to appeal to beekeeping groups and enthusiasts?

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