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.