Immersive experience to open on Cork city's northside

An arts exhibition and temporary trail, created by young people and older adults, is set to open in Cork city this month.

The immersive experience, running from May 29 until May 31, will be located between Mayfield and Knocknaheeny as a temporary addition to the cultural landscape.

Since mid-February, older persons groups and schools based in Mayfield and Knocknaheeny have been working with six local artists to map and re-imagine their surroundings as part of the ROAM creative programme.

ROAM is a creative programme designed to support wellbeing and social connection in Cork city, developed by Cork City Council and Irish Hospice Foundation through the Creative Ireland Programme, as part of a wider Creative Communities Initiative within Sláintecare Healthy Communities.

Poems, paintings, works in clay and cardboard are the fragile materials making up two temporary exhibitions at locations at Mayfield Library and The Canteen at Knocknaheeny, while posters, bunting, performances and games will connect the space between the two communities.

Through new maps of familiar places, the groups have attempted to share where their imaginations and external worlds meet.

The disparity in age groups involved has resulted in memories of old songs sitting alongside wild daydreams about the future, all giving considerate reflection on the present.

The Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Dan Boyle said that the project enabled participants to “unlock” their creative potential through collaborative work.

“ROAM demonstrates how creativity can enhance connection, healing, and overall health in our communities,” said Mr Boyle.

“By uniting children, older adults, and local artists, the project helps individuals reflect on the pandemic’s impact and reimagine the spaces they inhabit.

“This initiative aligns with the Creative Ireland Programme’s goal to unlock creative potential, benefiting both individuals and the community.

“It also supports the Sláintecare vision of providing the right care, in the right place, at the right time, by fostering community health and wellbeing.”

For more information on the exhibition, or the ROAM programme, visit: www.roamcork.ie.