By Fiona Donnellan

The film follows nature restoration charity Hometree’s ‘Dinnseanchas’ Project. Dinnseanchas describes the topography of a place through its stories, myths, and inhabitants. The project – funded by Creative Ireland’s Creative Climate Action fund – embraces this ancient way of seeing the land, using it as a lens to explore Ireland’s western uplands in a time of profound change.
During the project, artists were embedded in six coastal communities to listen deeply to their experience of navigating climate change, depopulation, and the complex web of socio-economic and agricultural policies. Dinnseanchas weaves together personal and collective narratives that reveal the resilience, wisdom, and creativity rooted in these places.

The resulting film is both a reflection and a celebration of community, brought vividly to life on screen. Commissioned by Hometree and directed by João Tudella (both based in Co. Clare) and filmed along the rugged west coast of Ireland from Kerry to Donegal, this film offers a rich tapestry of voices – from farmers and artists to community members – woven together in a quiet act of cultural resistance.

Artists included in the project were Heather Griffin – Lyreacrompane, Co. Kerry, Patrick Mulvihill – Lyreacrompane, Co. Kerry, Peadar-Tom Mercier – Maam Valley, Co. Galway, Róisín de Buitléar – Glenveagh, Co. Donegal, Síomha Brock – Uíbh Ráthach, Co. Kerry, William Bock – Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork, Zoë Rush – Corca Dhuibhne, Co. Kerry.

As climate pressures intensify, Dinnseanchas explores how traditional knowledge, storytelling, and a deep connection to place can shape local responses to ecological change. It’s not just a film, it’s a tribute to the wisdom held in the land and the people who steward it.

Director João Tudella explains: “The film explores how traditional knowledge and community memory shape responses to climate pressures and ecological change.”

Dinnseanchas will be showcased at IMMA’s Earth Rising Festival (Dulin - September 12-14th) and in a talk at the Strandhill Film & Folk Festival (Sligo - August 30th), ahead of festival premieres.