​​​Noel Arrigan is a multi-media, sculptor from Galway. Noel’s work includes photography, stop animation, performance art, sound, digital media and kinetic art. The majority of Noel’s work is environmental/science based which involves welding, blacksmithing, wood/metal turning, mould making, magnets, motors and various other workshop practises. His latest work involved the documentation and investigation of the healing powers of Irish wells.

     He is currently a board member of 126 Gallery and a member of Forge Clay Studio, Galway.  He has completed public art commissions including ‘Things to live by’ a collaborative contemporary art project between Croi na Gaillimhe – St. Vincent de Paul and Forge Clay Studios, 2013, plus project administrator on “Inis Bearachain”, part of the Tulca Festival of Visual Arts, Galway, 2012.

     “I have been documenting the holy wells of Ireland, their location, their cures and how they are cared for. Through my research I have found that the wells have a very deep connection with the people of this land. There is nearly a holy well in every parish in the country. I am collecting holy water from the wells to distil the water. In doing so I am purifying water making it drinkable. I am also giving the water a new beginning, a renewal or a spiritual transcendence. Through distilling I noticed that the evaporating steam can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and the pores of the skin. By interacting with this steam I am questioning if the healing powers/or not of the spiritual wells of Ireland”.