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Céline Mermier’s “Banquet of Kings” comes to life in Limerick highlighting the challenges of pollution

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Art Against Pollution: Céline Mermier’s “Banquet of Kings” Comes to Life in Limerick

“Banquet of Kings” a photographic project by Céline Mermier aims to raise public awareness about the pressing challenges of pollution and overconsumption

The project is led by conceptual and fine art photographer Céline Mermier

The photographic project “Banquet of Kings,” which aims to raise public awareness about the pressing challenges of pollution and overconsumption, reached a significant milestone on August 9, 2025, with a photoshoot conducted in Limerick.

Led by conceptual and fine art photographer Céline Mermier, this artistic collaboration brings a new perspective to how art engages with environmental issues.

Described as a project that “questions our pollution,” “Banquet of Kings” brings together diverse artists and professionals. It seeks to provoke astonishment and reflection, prompting the public to consider humanity’s impact on the planet without judgment or moralization.


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“This is a call for introspection, an invitation to closely examine the consequences of our choices,” said Céline Mermier. “Yesterday’s photoshoot in Limerick was incredible, bringing our monumental vision for this project to life.”

The heart of the exhibition will be a grandiose photographic tableau featuring five models who will embody the opulence of consumption against harsh environmental realities.

All accessories used for the photoshoot were either purchased second-hand, salvaged from the trash, donated or loaned, or handmade

This central piece will be complemented by five individual photographs, each spotlighting a distinct ecological emergency. The title “Banquet of Kings” itself symbolises the striking contrast between wealth and the devastating repercussions of unchecked consumption.

In a conscious effort to minimise the project’s environmental impact, all accessories used for the photoshoot were either purchased second-hand, salvaged from the trash, donated or loaned, or handmade. Furthermore, the fabrics for the costumes are French (sourced in Ireland) or Irish.

The project is the fruit of a collaboration with a talented team, including Nathalie De Haan (stylist), Avia Gurman (project coordinator), Benjamin Santon (technical manager), Ciara Foley (content creator), Katie O’Leary (make-up artist), and models Viktoriia Hlushchenko, Anastasiia Voloshchuk, Bradley Bourke, Galyna Orlova, and Eoin Coveney.

The project is funded by Creative Ireland and Limerick City and County Council through the Limerick Creative Communities Small Grants Scheme 2025, highlighting local commitment to meaningful artistic projects that address global issues.

Details regarding the public presentation of “Banquet of Kings” will be announced soon.

Described as a project that "questions our pollution," "Banquet of Kings" brings together diverse artists and professionals.
Described as a project that “questions our pollution,” “Banquet of Kings” brings together diverse artists and professionals.

Richard is a presenter, producer, songwriter and actor. He was named the Limerick Person of the Year (2011) and won an online award at the Metro Éireann Media and Multicultural Awards (2011) for promoting multi-culturalism online. Richard says that the ilovelimerick.com concept is very much a community driven project that aims to document life in Limerick. So, that in 20 years time people can look back and remember the events that were making the headlines.