Mural Complete

Geometric muralist Shane O’Malley, working with TY students, has created an amazing artwork in the school representing the locality and its traditions, which are the backdrop to the the transience of our lives.

Deputy Principal Ms Moynihan initiated the project, identifying it as an ideal way to mark the school’s 50th year. It was also a great opportunity to use the spaces on the campus which have huge potential to showcase art projects. Ms Moynihan sought support from both IRD Duhallow and Cork County Council who were glad to support the joint community initiative. With their support, Shane O’Malley was invited to create the mural.

The TY students worked with Shane to explore ideas and he incorporated their design elements in the mural. The sheer scale of the artwork is very impressive, as are the colours and shapes that knit together to create the whole image. Shane says he likes the order, the flat block colours, the hard-edge lines and the modern aesthetic of the geometric style. The symbolism of the labyrinthine path echoes the aleatory nature of our lives. This is an interesting aspect of the work in our 50th year as many past pupils are remembering their time here and reflecting on their paths through life. It is a central idea for current students also as they plan the next steps of their journey.

Shane was assisted by the TY students in the work, which depicts a mirror image view of Clara Mountain, the labyrinth, ogham writing from the stone unearthed in Corkery’s land and housed in the school along with abstract designs reflecting nature, sport and school life.

The school is very grateful to IRD Duhallow and Cork County Council for their support of this initiative.