ninth wave studio

The May 2019 "Landscape Immersion for Creatives" excursion has been designed by Ninth Wave Studio's Director, Linda Rzoska to offer its participants an immersion into the landscape and history of Ireland. Participants will have opportunities to learn about the culture, mythology, and spirituality of Ireland within a historical context. In addition to site visits – time will be available for research, study, writing, sketchbook work and reflection.

 

Cost, Dates, and Fees

The 10 night trip will take place in mid May 2019, the exact dates will be determined by the trip's participants. The trip is limited to 13 individuals. Approximated B&B costs for 13 participants for 10 nights + pick up and delivery to and from Shannon Airport + 6 over the road excursions =  865 Euros ($1055 by the exchange rate as of 040518). This amount does not include the cost of entrance fees or ferry fees (approximate cost for these is 175 Euros ($ 220 by the exchange rate as of 040518). Note: Round trip air fare is additional.

About the Excursion Leader

Linda Rzoska is a professor emeritus from Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC) where she taught in the Art & New Media Program at the Center for New Media. During her time at KVCC she was an active member of the Midwest Institute for International and Intercultural Education – leading 9 student study abroad trips to Ireland's Burren College of Art. Rzoska’s areas of expertise are Art, Design and Irish Studies. Her specific areas of interest lie in ancient and medieval cultures, comparative religion and archaeology.

 

Accommodations

Meadowfield Bed & Breakfast in the village of Ballyvaughan, County Clare will serve as the home base for the 10 nights. All rooms are ensuite. Ballyvaughan is a small coastal village with several pubs and restaurants for lunches, dinners and Irish music.

Site Visit Excursions

A private 14 seat van will take participants on 6 site visits throughout County Clare, County Galway and County Mayo. Site visit excursions will include: Bunratty Castle; Trip to Inisheer of the Aran Islands; Tour of Connemara; Tour of the Burren - including the Cliffs of Moher; The Burren Display Center; and a Kilfenora Ceili. Additional site visit excursions can be booked by individual participants while there.

Walking Excursions

There will be optional opportunities to explore the landscape with walking excursions led by Linda Rzoska. Participants should expect moderately uneven terrain, including cobblestone streets and paved roads, with some hills and stairs.

Additional Site Visit Excursion Possibilities

Interested participants have the opportunity to personally schedule additional site visit excursions. The following are some suggestions: Overnight trip to Inishmore; visit to Dysert O’Dea Castle and the High Cross of Saint Tola; Gleninagh Castle and the Holy Well of the Holy Cross; the Flaggy Shore; Dunguaire Castle's Medieval Banquet; the historic site of  Craggaunowen; and more.