Celtic Nature Poetry in Word and Image – Supporting Galway Rape Crisis Centre

We are deeply grateful to artist and author Alexandra van Tuyll, who has generously donated 40 copies of her book Celtic Nature Poetry in Word and Image to support Galway Rape Crisis Centre. All proceeds from the sale of these books will go directly towards funding our services for survivors of sexual violence and abuse.

Alexandra has been a committed and compassionate supporter of GRCC for many years. Throughout this time, she has donated numerous original artworks to assist with fundraising initiatives, helping us to continue providing free, confidential support, counselling, and advocacy to those who need it most.

Her previous publication, Ancient Irish Trees (2020), also raised significant funds for Rape Crisis Centres and hospices across the west of Ireland, including Galway Rape Crisis Centre, making a meaningful and lasting contribution to our work and to survivor support services throughout the region.

By purchasing a copy of Celtic Nature Poetry in Word and Image, you are not only acquiring a beautiful and thoughtful book, but also directly supporting the vital services provided by Galway Rape Crisis Centre.

Purchase Your Copy

About the Book

Celtic Nature Poetry in Word and Image is a thoughtful and moving collection that explores the deep bond between the Celts and the world around them. Featuring carefully chosen Irish and Welsh nature poems—first shared through oral storytelling long before they were written down—the book reflects a culture in which forests, wildlife, changing seasons, and untamed landscapes carried deep spiritual significance.

Artist Alexandra van Tuyll interprets these poetic works through her own expressive visual art, bringing fresh life to these timeless verses. Together, the poetry and imagery form a reflective and visually striking tribute to Celtic tradition and to the lasting wonder of the natural world.

About the Author

Born in the Netherlands, Alexandra van Tuyll has dedicated her life to the arts. She taught music and painting before moving to Achill Island in 2001, where she began painting full-time, inspired by the dramatic landscapes and light of the West of Ireland.

Her work is exhibited in leading galleries in Ireland and internationally and is held in both private and public collections. Alongside her artistic career, Alexandra has consistently used her work to support charitable causes. Her earlier publications include:

• Sea Meets Land (2012), in aid of the RNLI
• Ancient Irish Trees (2020), in support of Rape Crisis Centres and hospices in the west of Ireland.

Her ongoing generosity continues to make a real difference to the lives of survivors supported by Galway Rape Crisis Centre.

Exciting Progress on Galway Rape Crisis Centre’s New Building

We are thrilled to share some exciting news— construction of Galway Rape Crisis Centre’s new home is well underway! The prefabricated elements are now being put in place, and it’s incredible to see the visible fruits of years of hard work and planning come to life right before our eyes. This marks a significant milestone, not just for GRCC, but for the entire Galway community.

Located at No. 7 Claddagh Quay, our new building will be a cornerstone for the essential services we provide. Over the past 40 years, we’ve stood as a beacon of hope and support for survivors of sexual violence across Galway City, County, Roscommon, and North Clare. As our services have grown, so too has the demand, and the need for a dedicated, purpose-built facility has never been more pressing.

This new space is more than just a building—it represents a brighter future for survivors and the community. The expanded facility will allow us to more than double our service provision, offering a welcoming, safe environment for all who seek our help. With custom-designed counselling rooms, office spaces, and meeting areas, we will have the capacity to better serve survivors, offering support, advocacy, and healing with the dignity and privacy they deserve.

The building has been thoughtfully designed with inclusivity in mind. We are committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background, has access to the vital services we provide. From young people as young as 12 to adults who have experienced trauma, our new home will be a safe haven for all who need it.

This moment is a testament to our community’s resilience and unwavering commitment to breaking the silence and stigma around sexual violence. It’s a symbol of hope for survivors, showing that support is available and that healing is possible.

We could not have reached this stage without the incredible generosity of our supporters. Your contributions have been instrumental in making this vision a reality. We still need your support to finalise this vital project. Every donation is an investment in the future of survivors and the ongoing mission of Galway Rape Crisis Centre.

Together, we are building more than just a structure—we are building a future of healing, empowerment, and change. Stay tuned for more updates as our new home continues to take shape, and thank you for being part of this journey with us.

Let’s keep working together to create a brighter tomorrow for everyone in our community.

Warm regards,
The Galway Rape Crisis Centre Team