Intergenerational Arts Exhibition 'ROAM' to Connect Cork Communities

A new cultural initiative bridging generations and neighbourhoods is set to open in Cork next week. The ROAM creative programme will showcase exhibitions featuring artwork created by both young people and older adults from the Mayfield and Knocknaheeny communities.

Beginning Thursday, 29 May, the temporary exhibitions will display poems, paintings, and works in clay and cardboard at Mayfield Library and The Canteen in Knocknaheeny. The art installations are the result of a collaborative project that began in mid-February, where community members worked alongside six Cork artists to reimagine their surroundings.

The project uniquely combines perspectives across generations, with older participants' memories sitting alongside schoolchildren's visions of the future. Connecting the two communities will be a trail of posters, bunting, performances and games.

Lord Mayor Cllr. Dan Boyle highlighted the project's significance:

"ROAM demonstrates how creativity can enhance connection, healing, and overall health in our communities. By uniting children, older adults, and local artists, the project helps individuals reflect on the pandemic's impact and reimagine the spaces they inhabit."

The initiative comes as part of broader efforts to address social isolation following the pandemic. Seven local artists received special training in creative approaches to grief and loss to facilitate the programme.

Events will take place over three days, with launches on Thursday, 29 May at Mayfield Library (11am to 1pm) and The Canteen, Knocknaheeny (3pm to 5pm). Friday's 'Exchanges' programme encourages communities to visit each other, while Saturday's 'Encounters' features family-friendly workshops and music.

ROAM is jointly developed by Cork City Council and the Irish Hospice Foundation through the Creative Ireland Programme and forms part of the Creative Communities Initiative within Sláintecare Healthy Communities.

All events are free to attend. Complete details about the exhibitions, encounters, trails and the overall project can be found at www.RoamCork.ie.