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A children's arts organisation and publishing house.
Age range: 7–12
Lamp the Kevs is a vibrant celebration of family histories, cultural diversity, and the creativity of children in Scoil Íosa, Ballina.
Lamp the Kevs brings together stories and artwork created by children from Traveller and settled communities, as well as children from Ukraine, Egypt, Brazil, and other parts of the world. The project formed part of Ballina 2023, a year-long celebration of the town’s 300th anniversary, and explored the rich intercultural life of the local school community.
Facilitated by Kids’ Own associate writers Mary Branley and Sarah O’Keeffe, with artist Alice Dixon, the children expressed their experiences through writing, drawing, painting, and sculpture. Their reflections on family, home, and tradition come together in a joyful, colourful collection that celebrates individual voices while highlighting the shared spirit of the community.
The title, Lamp the Kevs—meaning “look at the shoes” in Cant, the traditional language of the Traveller community—captures the humour, expression, and cultural exchange that runs throughout the book. Examples of Cant are included, giving readers a glimpse into this enduring heritage.
Kids’ Own acknowledges the support of the National Museum of Ireland, Ballina 300, and Mayo North East, in partnership with Scoil Íosa, Ballina, for making this project possible.
