Readings by the River : The Autumn Chapter

Readings by the River is a curated riverside reading group for local artists and creative practitioners, exploring waterways, creative flow and ecological imagination.

After three beautiful sessions at the Teahouses by the River Nore this summer, we are taking the process out onto the water.

This Autumn, we explore more texts, ideas and reflections - while we paddle down the River Barrow - one of the three sisters.

What to expect

Our guide is Charlie Horan of Go with the Flow River Adventures, who has over 30 years' experience bringing people onto the water in Kilkenny and Carlow.

As we float, Shannon will guide an informal reflection on how letting ourselves be paced and shaped by the seasons of the river can support creative practice.

Tasneem Khan will share knowledge of the River's local biodiversity, including identifying indicator species that tell us about change and hidden stories of water health.

Along the way there will be a rest stop for tea, coffee and nibbles, with time to chat, draw or reflect.

Each session centres on a carefully selected sequence of readings. Spanning poetry, essays and book excerpts which will be shared with all participants in advance of each gathering. Together, these texts form a living conversation across disciplines, inviting individuals into a space of slow attention, listening and reflection.

What to wear & bring along

• Warm layers

• Canvas shoes or old runners

• A change of clothing (just incase)

• Zip lock bag

• Notebook and pencil

• Water bottle

• Rain jacket

Accessibility and comfort on the water

Please let us know in advance if you are not a confident swimmer. Or if you have any concerns about accessibility or being in or on the water.

The series offers both a gentle and generative space to connect with others, deepen artistic practice, and engage with the river as both site and source.

This initiative is being funded and supported by the Kilkenny Arts Office as part of the Artist Connect grant 2026.