"Umha Aois" (Irish for "Bronze Age") is an ongoing experimental project organised on a volunteer basis by a committee formed of artists & archaeologists. Through research and experimentation we are attempting to rediscover our Bronze Age ancestors' casting methods, and in the process empower the artists involved with unique approaches to working in bronze.

The experimental process itself allows the artists involved greater freedom than any bronze foundry would ever allow. Although the material (bronze) is familiar, the method (stone and clay moulds) is new to most. Participants have found that this was an exciting and empowering experience because of the simplicity and directness of the techniques. Every artist has an opportunity to participate in all aspects of bronze casting including the pour and to see their work develop technically and conceptually.

Umha Aois is a unique celebration of the Bronze Age. Using the ancient techniques of stone and clay moulds, artists and archaeologists collaborate to make new artwork and replicate ancient forms in a symposium context. Bronze is melted and poured in the open, using experimental charcoal-fired pit furnaces.