Today, I accompanied the 5th and 6th year Art students on an educational walking tour of Ardú Street Art in Cork. During the tour, students engaged with large-scale murals created by a range of artists whose works reflect and celebrate the rich history of Irish culture. Through guided discussion, they gained insights into how public art can serve as a powerful medium for storytelling, identity, and social commentary.
Our exploration continued at the Glucksman Gallery at University College Cork, where students participated in a guided tour of the Labour of Love exhibition. This temporary exhibition features both Irish and international artists who critically examine the theme of labour in contemporary society. Students were encouraged to consider how visual art can make visible the often-invisible roles of unpaid and low-paid work, drawing attention to undervalued services and the societal structures that render them hidden. The experience fostered critical thinking around the intersections of art, economy, and social responsibility.