Wikimedia Community Ireland partnered with artist Aoife Cawley for Wiki Loves Folklore 2025. We commissioned her to create a series of images that vividly depict Irish folk traditions. These artworks are now freely accessible on Wikimedia Commons, enriching the repository of Ireland’s intangible cultural heritage.
Wiki Loves Folklore is an annual international photography competition held from February 1 to March 31, that aims to document and preserve the world’s diverse folk cultures. By encouraging participants to capture and share media related to local traditions—such as dance, music, festivals, and daily life—the initiative plays a crucial role in safeguarding intangible heritage. This aligns with the 2003 UNESCO Convention’s emphasis on the importance of preserving cultural practices for future generations.
I really enjoyed my time working alongside Wiki Loves Folklore and the Wikimedia Ireland team. The work they are doing regarding regards conservation of folklore/traditions as well as the Irish language is incredibly important. They are making our culture extremely accessible to people in Ireland and internationally, plus preserving it digitally for generations to come. I especially commend their campaigns working with schools and young people to ensure women and other gender minorities are written into our history, and in our native language. It has been an honour to work alongside this organisation.”- Aoife Cawley, Artist
Aoife Cawley, a printmaker and textiles artist from County Kildare, has a deep-rooted passion for folklore, mythology, and history. Her work seamlessly blends traditional medieval art forms with contemporary techniques, resulting in pieces that are both bold and evocative.
Access the Images on Wikimedia Commons here.
The collaboration between Wikimedia Community Ireland and Aoife Cawley not only enriches Wikimedia Commons with authentic representations of Irish folklore but also underscores the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage. By making these images freely available, the project invites global audiences to engage with and appreciate Ireland’s rich cultural tapestry.
Here’s how you can use them:
