Oil painting of Scattery Island.(original sold). I spent one of the most wonderful days on Scattery Island. Deserted now, the very stones and ruins are saturated with history.

Located approximately one mile off Kilrush, Scattery Island is home to a monastic settlement founded in the early 6th century by St. Senan who was born locally and was named after the mythical monster on the Island.

Now uninhabited there are many ruins on the island including those of seven churches, a unique 10th century round tower (one of the highest in Ireland – featured in the painting next to the church) and a holy well which is said to have healing qualities – its water was enjoyed by the inhabitants of the island for many centuries.

Scattery has had many invasions down through the centuries; the Vikings invaded during the early 9th century but Brian Boru later recaptured the island.

The graveyards and ruins are very special as there are still people living in Cappa who were inhabitants on Scattery Island.

Wildlife, landscapes and Irish life paintings by Avril Brand

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