Creative Cork | Julie Daunt

Julie Daunt discusses some of the most notable names in Irish and Cork art.While Cork might not be considered the art capital of Ireland, that’s not to say that the banks of our lovely Lee are completely devoid of artistic talent; quite the opposite in fact. The ‘real capital’ has attracted painters, designers and sculptors that are becoming household names, and are worth keeping your eye on. Their works can been seen in galleries and institutes in the city and county, but also around the country, and even the other side of the world, like Australia. The artists below are just a few who are revolutionising the art world, and proving that the Irish, and Cork, can still produce unique and progressive art.     Conor Harrington: In the world of contemporary street art, this is one name worth remembering. For those unfamiliar with Harrington, his work can be described as a fusion of street art techniques and fine art themes. Although based in London (he was born and reared in Cork), his pieces can be seen on home turf such as Dublin and Belfast, but also in locations as far reaching as L.A. His works aren’t just limited to the wall; he also produces pieces on canvas.Throughout the years, Harrington has met many of the famous graffiti and street artists of today such as Solo One and Sheperd Fairey. He has described his work as “post-graffiti” as it combines both the refined classic art style he learned in Art College, with the “bombing” technique of graffiti. Overall, Conor’s work is unique in style and content. If you don’t like his works, apparently he makes good cups of tea. Check out his blog at www.conorsaysboom.wordpress.com     The Project Twins: Made up of James and Michael Fitzgerald, this duo is based here in Cork in Sample-Studios. Their work mainly consists of striking graphic designs and illustrations. Some of their work has been exhibited on our very doorstep, with three of their posters being included in the recent Living/Loss exhibition at the Lewis Glucksman Gallery. However, their works have also been commissioned by other companies and agencies in Ireland, as well as internationally, such as ING Direct bank in Australia. They have also created poster and video advertisements. One notable advertisement was for Bulmers Specials.Simplistic in their style and colour palette, their works are innovative and quirky. Their works are amusing, witty and jovial, but also deal with topical issues such as the stigmas associated with mental health. They get their message across through humble means. It is no surprise that they are regularly commissioned to create works, and I believe we will be seeing a lot more of their posters and graphics in the future. Check out their website at www.theprojecttwins.com and their Facebook page.     Don Cronin: From street art to graphic design, let us look at what sculptors Cork has to offer. Don Cronin springs to mind. Don studied at both the Crawford College of Art and Design, as well Philosophy here at UCC. He is now based in the National Sculpture Factory near the Elysian. Specialising in sculpture when he attended the Crawford, Don has gone on to produce works for both public and private viewing. His works have been commissioned by numerous county councils of Ireland, from Cork to Tipperary, but they have also been featured in collections across the pond in San Francisco. His works are even located really close to home – right here on campus!Don mainly works in bronze, although he has also worked in stone and stainless steel. You’ll find many of his sculptures along the roadside in towns such as Blarney, Midleton and Macroom. Check out his website at www.doncronin.net for more of his work.Overall, these artists, and many more I haven’t mentioned, prove that Cork is a hub of ground-breaking and diverse artistic talent.