Trailblazing women sought for portraits to be displayed at UCC 

A Cork university has issued an open call for nominations of trailblazing women to feature in a new series of portraits recognising pioneering achievements.

The series, ‘Accenture’s Women On Walls’, will be displayed at University College Cork (UCC) and is aimed at enhancing the visibility of women leaders from, or with links to, the Munster region through commissioned portraits.

Members of the public are invited to submit their suggestions for the artworks, including subjects who are both living or deceased.

When completed, the new artworks will join the UCC Art Collection and will be permanently exhibited on campus.

This is the first time that the campaign has commenced with people encouraged to nominate women from groups who are currently underrepresented.

All applications will be considered on the merits, experience, and qualifications of the proposed subjects as these relate to the requirements and specifications of the commission.

The closing date for nominations is August 6, with selected subjects to be announced in October.

An open call for the commissioning process of artists will run later this year through Business to Arts.

Professor John O’Halloran, president of UCC said: “It is important the diverse talents and contributions of women are recognised and that their stories are visible and celebrated.

We hope the trailblazing women we will spotlight as part of this campaign will inspire and encourage our students, staff, alumni, and the wider community to pursue their dreams and realise their full potential.”

Dr Michelle Cullen, managing director and inclusion & diversity lead, Accenture Ireland said: “25 extraordinary women have been recognised in commissioned portraits since Women on Walls began in 2016.

“It has been a privilege to shine a light on their stories and create a lasting cultural legacy.

“As we embark on this next chapter with UCC, we look forward to recognising the outstanding achievements of a new group of women leaders.”

People are invited to submit nominations by visiting www.accenture.com/womenonwalls.