Photographed By William Murphy - Select Image To View Photographs

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ATTRACTIVE WOOD SCULPTURE

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The Artist

The wood carvings along the Stormont trails—which include various animals, folklore figures, and literary quotes—were primarily created by the sculptor Will Fogarty, who works under the name Fear na Coillte (Irish for "Man of the Woods").

Fogarty is a renowned "chainsaw artist" based in Ireland. He is known for transforming fallen or seasoned timber into intricate sculptures that blend seamlessly into their natural surroundings. His work at Stormont is designed to encourage families and children to engage with the woodland and "watch with glittering eyes" for hidden details.

Meaning of the Inscription

The full passage from Dahl’s The Minpins provides the broader context for the carving:

"And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it."

The inscription serves as a philosophical reminder of several key themes:

Open-Mindedness: It suggests that "magic" isn't necessarily about spells or sorcery, but about the ability to see the extraordinary within the ordinary. If you approach the world with cynicism, you become blind to the wonders of nature, art, and human connection.

The Power of Perspective: It acts as a call to maintain a "childlike" sense of wonder. In the context of a nature trail, it invites walkers to slow down and notice the small, "magical" details—the way light hits a leaf or the symmetry of a spiderweb.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: It implies that our expectations shape our reality. If you believe the world is dull, it will be; if you believe it is full of hidden secrets, you will naturally begin to discover them.

The Woodland Trail (Carved Animals & Folklore)

This trail is where you will find the "Magic" quote alongside various animal and sensory features:

The Roald Dahl Quote: The "Magic" inscription discussed above.

Woodland Animals: Chainsaw-carved figures of local wildlife including Owls, Hares, Foxes, and Badgers.

Fairy Houses: Small, intricately carved "fairy doors" and houses built into the bases of trees.

The Storyteller’s Chair: A large, ornate wooden throne used for outdoor readings and gatherings.

Sensory Points: Various tactile carvings designed for children to touch and explore.

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