Nuala
O’Donovan

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live in the beautiful city of Cork, Ireland, where I split my time between my home studio and the National Sculpture Factory on Albert Road, right in the heart of the city.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

If I have the day to myself and the weather is good, I will go to one of the many beaches on the south coast.

In the city I will go and sit in the Cricket Club on Mardyke Walk—free and open to all—I sit on the grass and watch a game with a coffee. I don‘t follow cricket—or fully understand the rules—but find it very relaxing to watch live! The city park, Fitzgeralds Park is right next door—also a wonderful place to go. The Nano Nagle Centre in the city centre has a wonderful walled garden and cafe—Good Day Deli.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

There is a serious housing problem in Ireland—it‘s scarce and expensive. There is a shortage of social housing and the numbers of people registered as homeless is a serious issue that affects every aspect of life. It‘s the reason that a lot of younger people are emigrating, many feel that they will never be able to afford to buy a home—or even to move out of their parents houses!

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?

Since 2008, Ireland’s economy has rebounded strongly, with an explosion of food, music, and entertainment venues. Post-Covid, the arts scene has flourished, with a resurgence of festivals and music events like Cork Midsummer Festival, Live at the Marquee, and the Cork Jazz Festival. Major arts venues such as a Crawford Art Gallery, Glucksman, Triskel, and the National Sculpture Factory have become vibrant hubs, drawing enthusiastic audiences.

However, the city faces challenges. Increasing office buildings are replacing much-needed housing, and many landmark structures tied to the city’s industrial and maritime history are being demolished. High rents have forced many artists and small businesses to close or relocate.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

For locally produced food and fish, the English Market in the city centre is the place to go. Iago on Princes Street for local cheese and fresh pasta. Saturday Farmers Market on the Coal Quay. Designworks sells contemporary jewelry by Irish makers as well as their own on site studio. The Lavit Gallery—set within artists studios and printworks on Wandesford Quay sells craftwork and fine art by local artists. The Glucksman Gallery Shop sells work by local artisans.
Nano Nagle Centre shop—work by local makers. The Irish Design and Crafts Council/DCCI website is a good national resource for visitors—with links on the website to local makers and galleries in all areas oft he country.

For Design & Craft I would recommend Stephen O’Connells Gallery in Clonakilty, shows and sells larger pieces by renowned Irish makers; basketwork, furniture, ceramics, glass, etc. it is the place to see the best of Irish Craftwork.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison with other places you have already visited?

Cork is buzzing with live music across its vibrant venues, both in the city and the surrounding county. In the city, some of my top spots include:

The Triskel Arts Centre: Known for its eclectic mix of jazz, classical, and traditional music, plus a cinema. Coughlan’s Bar: A lively venue for a range of acts. The Corner House: Traditional music and a great atmosphere.

For venues outside the city, check out:

The White Horse, Ballincollig – This venue offers live performances and events. De Barras, Clonakilty – One of West Cork’s most iconic music venues. Levis Corner House, Ballydehob – A popular spot for live music and sessions in West Cork. Connolly’s of Leap – Known for its intimate gigs and musical events.

For cultural and artistic experiences:

Crawford Art Gallery – Cork’s leading gallery, offering a range of exhibitions. The Glucksman Gallery, UCC – A contemporary art gallery in the UCC grounds. The ButterMarket Museum – Located in Shandon, Cork, it’s a great place to explore local history.

For the full local experience, it’s always great to ask a Cork local for the latest recommendations!

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

Ichigo Ichi is a fine dining experience offering a creative fusion of Japanese flavors. L’Attitude Wine Bar provides a cozy atmosphere for wine enthusiasts, paired with a thoughtful selection of food and drinks. Orso is popular restaurant on Pembroke Street, serving modern dishes with an Italian influence. Arthur Maynes Pharmacy a unique venue on Pembroke Street combining food, wine, and adding a historical charm to your dining experience. For a lively pub atmosphere Franciscan Well at North Mall offers delicious pizzas and a great selection of craft beers, perfect for a casual night out.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

Designworks is a vibrant creative space offering art, design, and exhibitions. It’s a great place to discover local talent and enjoy innovative design. Lavit Gallery: This contemporary art gallery hosts exhibitions from both established and emerging artists. It’s a must-visit for art lovers in Cork. IAGO (local food haven), offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for those wanting to enjoy authentic Cork flavors.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

Instagram, Duolingo , My bank (I don’t use them every day).

Do you have any favorite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

I usually read hardcopy weekend newspapers—The Financial Times and The Irish Examiner, that‘s enough for me. For keeping up with local news, I follow CorkBeo, and TripeandDrisheen on instagram. Also WaterfordWhispers—a wonderful satirical Irish newsfeed commenting on national news—always makes me laugh!

Imagine you could be major for a year—what would you change?

Start a free river bus service for commuters—get people out of their cars and make the journey to the city/work a treat!
I would install an electronic noticeboard to list all the events happening that day and week. It’s difficult to keep track sometimes. Also, it would be a great source of information for visitors. After that I would improve public transport generally, make it a free and frequent 24 hour service.

One last question: if you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constraints—which one would you choose?

I’ve lived in lots of places that I loved but I like my home city best. If I could move for the winter I’d live in Barcelona, Spain and move home for the summer.