Building The Lagan Lighter

Where to begin with an introduction to Paddy Bloomer?

Artist-plumber-inventor-explorer, this large-scale commission as part of #Belfast2024 continued his tradition of innovating vessels (or "mechanical curiosities”) which are constructed from recycled materials and featuring sustainable forms of power.

Paddy began construction on The Lagan Lighter in early June 2024 and we were fortunate enough to catch up with him ahead of it's maiden voyage on Saturday 3 August as part of PS2's incredible river celebration at Maysfield Basin.

There were 10,000 boats, processions, performances, paddling pools, music, waves, boatbuilding, ropemaking, bubble-blowing, face-painting.... WATER-WAY TO HAVE A GOOD TIME!!!

Alongside #Belfast2024, The Lagan Lighter was also been made possible by support from Maritime Mile, Castlecourt Belfast, Lagan Currachs and Feile na Habhann.