This morning (July 5 2024), amidst the wilds of Hollywood, I am reflecting on the brilliance of my Little Book of Brigid. The Blueway Art Studio eloquently describes Brigid as “a powerful symbol of female endurance and women’s empowerment in Ireland,” celebrated both as an Irish Goddess and Christian saint.
A Heartfelt Endorsement
In June, I expressed my gratitude for the support in developing Haumea Ecoversity. Mentoring founding members and exploring ways to best serve our community online has been a fulfilling journey. Today, I want to share another significant endorsement that deeply resonates with me.
As a descendant of Irish immigrants who endured the Irish Famine, being nominated to receive one of the first 10 copies of the limited edition Little Book of Brigid is profoundly moving. This small, golden book, adorned with Brigid’s ‘Oak leaf,’ celebrates Ireland’s Goddess and Matron Saint, Brigid, along with 100 contemporary Irish women changemakers.
The Legacy of Brigid
Brigid 1500, celebrated earlier this year, honors Brigid’s 1500-year legacy. The poem “Brigid the Emigrant” particularly touched me, reflecting on how the Irish diaspora enriched other shores. This beautiful, nature-dyed, art-poetry letterpress project, led by the talented Angelina Foster of Blueway Studio, celebrates women’s roles throughout history.
Angelina’s collaboration with creatives aims to “celebrate the role of women in various aspects of life through Brigid.” The book is a tribute to women’s activism and achievements, gifted to 100 inspiring women or institutions supporting women’s rights globally.
This small golden book emblazoned with Brigid’s ‘Oak leaf’ was created to celebrate Ireland’s Goddess – Matron Saint Brigid, and 100 Irish contemporary women changemakers. Brigid’s 1500-year legacy was celebrated in early 2024 (see Brigid 1500)
Honored Recipients
The 10 recipients of The Little Book of Brigid include: Sabina Higgins, Sr Consilio, Alva Fitzgerald, Athy Sing & Sign, Cathy Fitzgerald, Sr Ann Scully, Sonya Kavanagh, Joan Martin, Erin Darcy, Celine Broughal, Mary McAleese, Aideen Barry, Laura Murphy, Jessie Lendennie, Bríd Brophy, Muslim Sisters of Éire, and Solas Bhríde. Unfortunately, I couldn’t attend the launch on 13 April 2024, but my friend Monica de Bath accepted the book on my behalf.
You can read more about this project and view a digital version of the book here.
Brigid’s Flame
Brigid is also associated with fire. As someone who grew up in Aotearoa New Zealand, I chose Haumea—a Pacific goddess of fertility, creativity, and fire—as a guiding figure for my work. This connection between Brigid and Haumea highlights the strength and compassion found in creativity and Indigenous wisdom.
Launch of The Little Book of Brigid, 13 April 2024
Unfortunately, I couldn’t make the launch attended by our President’s wife Sabina Higgins. I was delighted my friend Monica de Bath, who has also kept Brigid’s story alive, accepted the book on my behalf. Thank you Monica, and for coincidentally showing me how to make my own straw Brídeog (Brigid doll) recently! (In the photo, Sabina is holding the book with Angelina; Monica has the blue scarf).
You can read more about this wonderful project here at https://bluewayartstudio.ie/brigids-book/ and view a digital version of the book.
I will always treasure this remarkable book and its wisdom. Congratulations to Angelina and all involved in this wonderful cultural artifact.
Blessings to all creative flamekeepers, and heartfelt thanks to my anonymous nominator.
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