Not Words but Deeds, the motto of Nano Nagle, continues to guide the growth of Nano Nagle Place as it launches its new strategy, Where All Communities Belong. Nestled in the heart of Cork City Nano Nagle Place celebrates Nano’s legacy and belief in the transformative power of education and community. The award-winning museum attracts attracts thousands of visitors a year and is recognised internationally as one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions for 2024 by Tripadvisor.
In conjunction with this launch a bespoke lantern sculpture has been commissioned by renowned artist Eoin Turner. This new lantern installation honors the legacy of the “Lady of the Lantern”, Nano Nagle, who famously used lanterns to light her way through the streets of Cork as she helped the poor.
Eoin Turner is celebrated for his intricate sculptures incorporating glass elements. His work highlights the balance between fragility and durability, a theme that resonates in this latest piece. Turner, who also designed the stunning glass sculpture surrounding Nano Nagle’s tomb when it opened to the public in 2015, shared his thoughts on this final addition “The creation of the lantern sculpture is very much the capstone to the project we began in 2016 with the creation of the sculptural elements around Nano’s burial place. The lantern is both a physical beacon to draw and direct people to Nano Nagle’s resting place, as it is a metaphorical symbol of light and hope in the heart of our city.”
John Smith, CEO of Nano Nagle Place, notes “The installation of this striking new sculpture, alongside our new strategy, lights the way forward for our organisation. This new strategy ensures we can foster belonging, inclusion and interconnectedness through community-led workshops, culture, nature, and creative activities and events alongside our museum and heritage experiences. We were honoured to have so many friends and supporters with us to celebrate“
The newly launched 2024-2028 strategic plan outlines four key priorities: empowerment through education, impact through dialogue, transformation through the power of community, and organisational, and environmental sustainability through innovation. The launch event, attended by friends and supporters of Nano Nagle Place celebrated the unveiling of this striking new sculpture and the launch of this exciting new direction.
Sr Sheila Kelleher, Board Member of Nano Nagle Place adds “ We hope Nano Nagle Place will become renowned as a destination for visitors to Cork, seeking a place of inspiration, contemplation, and reflection at the heart of our busy city. Our commitment to social justice, and the enduring history and impactful legacies of Nano Nagle, will inform, inspire and challenge all who visit. As we look toward the future, we remain committed to embracing innovation and staying true to Nano Nagle’s enduring call to action, Not Words but Deeds.
Discover the hidden gem of Cork at Nano Nagle Place, a vibrant heritage site that offers a unique glimpse into Irish history and culture. Nestled in the heart of Cork City, the beautifully restored complex features a museum dedicated to the inspiring legacy of Nano Nagle, a social justice pioneer and top tourist destination in Cork. Visitors can explore historic buildings, tranquil walled gardens, and a charming design shop filled with local crafts. Whether you’re looking for educational tours, a peaceful retreat, or a taste of Cork’s rich heritage, Nano Nagle Place provides an unforgettable experience for all ages. Don’t miss this top Cork attraction and delve into the city’s fascinating past while enjoying a modern cultural oasis.
CORK CITY, IRELAND – September 2024. Nano Nagle Place is set to welcome visitors this autumn with a new exhibition, “Make No Noise,” created in collaboration with local photographer Clare Keogh. This immersive photo and audio exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the Presentation Sisters, showcasing their invaluable contributions to education both locally in Cork and globally, from Ecuador to Zambia.
New Exhibition: ‘Not to Make a Noise About It’
The exhibition features intimate portraits and audio interviews with the Sisters, who reflect on their journeys within the order and their unwavering dedication to Nano Nagle’s legacy. These stories highlight the Presentation Sisters’ enduring commitment to education and social justice, values that continue today through the work of the Lantern Project, the Men’s Group, and the Cork Migrant Centre.
John Smith, CEO of Nano Nagle Place, commented:
“Nano Nagle Place continues to embody the warmth and compassion of our founder, offering a space for all to learn, reflect, and be inspired. This exhibition provides a powerful insight into the 250-year legacy of the Presentation Sisters and Nano Nagle’s mission, which began right here in the heart of Cork City. We invite everyone to experience it. Visit us here at Nano Nagle Place, explore this exhibition and visit our award-winning museum.”
Crochet Hearts Remembrance Campaign
In addition to celebrating the Sisters’ contributions, Nano Nagle Place will host a special tribute this November to honour those who have passed. A poignant display of handmade crochet hearts, lovingly crafted by the Lantern Community Project’s “Crochet Ladies,” will adorn a remembrance tree in the peaceful garden at the heart of Nano Nagle Place throughout November.
Helen Geary, Ministry Manager of the Lantern Project, Cork Migrant Centre, Men’s Group and Spirituality Programme, adds
“We invite friends from near and far to join this heartfelt tribute to loved ones who are gone but never forgotten. Our remembrance tree is a symbol of the deep connections that unite our global community, and we are honoured to create this space of reflection and memory at Nano Nagle Place.”
Each hand-made crochet heart will be displayed for the full month of November. To participate in this dedication ceremony, please reserve your crochet heart online by donating online or in person at our Gift & Design Shop.
All donations received will go towards funding our work at Nano Nagle Place. Inspired by Nano Nagle and the Presentation Sisters, Nano Nagle Place is proud to run and operate as a registered charity. Funds raised through donations, membership, our Conference Centre, and Gift Shop not only support the operation of our beloved museum and the maintenance of our unique heritage site spanning 3.5 acres but also ensure that we continue Nano Nagle’s mission of aiding the most disadvantaged in our community. Our Community Hub Programmes, including the Cork Migrant Centre, Lantern Project, Men’s Group and Spirituality Programme benefit greatly from these generous gifts.