This article explores how community-created murals, part of “The Big Wash Up” project, played a crucial role in bringing the local community together and revitalising Shandon, a historic neighbourhood in Cork, Ireland.
It highlights how public art projects like the “Big Wash Up” can empower communities, preserve cultural heritage, and contribute to the resurgence of areas facing decline.
Over the last 15 years, community groups in Shandon used public murals as a successful strategy to reverse decades of stagnation. The murals, created through collaborative projects, celebrated the community’s past, present, and future, allowing residents to actively engage in civic dialogue.
By working with artists, the community created outdoor murals that highlighted local themes, characters, and historical elements unique to Shandon. The murals depicted aspects like shawlies, corner boys, and the Buttera, connecting the community with its heritage. The project emphasised the importance of community participation in public art initiatives. The process of creating murals not only honoured existing community memories but also facilitated the development of new shared memories among residents.
Participation was central to the design and delivery of the project. Through memory collection clinics and intergenerational collaboration, the project enabled residents to share stories and recollections, fostering a sense of community spirit and identity. The murals served as a catalyst for community engagement, social cohesion, and self-expression, allowing residents to shape their communal space through art.
