Dublin based sisters Ciarna and Sorcha Hackett have collaborated on a new book celebrating renowned women of Ireland. Womná, their new illustrated book of poems commemorates an array of well known, high achieving Irish women who changed and shaped the face of Ireland.
Drawing from a complex and diverse pool of Irish women ranging from Goddesses and trailblazers to activists, artists, writers and folk heroes, the Hackett siblings have compiled what they describe as ‘a considered collection of original illustrations and poems’.
Featuring twenty-three well-known Irish women, Womná is based on many of the inspiring mná who shaped the Ireland we know today. From Bridget to Jazzy, and Markievicz to The Morrigan, the book travels across centuries and genres to spotlight artists, activists, as well as figures both historical and mythical.
The sister’s survey includes goddesses such as Danú, and historical trailblazers including Nan Joyce, whose stories are told through often funny and thought-provoking poems. The writings are accompanied by Ciarna’s intricate illustrations, honouring each woman and celebrating their power, in her instantly recognisable style from her jewellery brand ‘Kiki Na Art’.
Commenting on Instagram, Ciarna said, “After two years of working on this book – myself and Sorcha wrote 24 poems and I illustrated – it’s fabulous to finally have it in motion!”
Womná is the first volume of what both hope sees many more to come – celebrating and showcasing each of these women as the icons they are.
The ‘Womná’ Book Launch takes place at Flux Studios, Chatham Row at 6pm on Thursday April 24th.
Words: Martina Murray
