Welcome to The Canvas of Cill Rialaig, a vibrant hub of creativity and culture located in County Kerry, Ireland. This unique artistic retreat has become a significant site for artists and creatives from around the world. Established in the early 1990s, the Cill Rialaig Project was the brainchild of Noelle Campbell-Sharp, a visionary who saw the potential in the ruins of a pre-famine village. The goal was to create a sanctuary where artists could find inspiration amidst the wild, dramatic landscape of the Irish coast.
The village of Cill Rialaig dates back to the 1790s, serving as a small settlement for farming families. However, like many rural communities in Ireland, it was severely impacted by the Great Famine of the mid-19th century. Over time, the village was abandoned, leaving behind a collection of stone cottages.
In 1991, Campbell-Sharp initiated the restoration of these cottages, transforming them into artists’ studios and living spaces. The project was completed in stages, with careful attention to preserving the historical integrity of the buildings while equipping them for modern use. Since its reopening, the Cill Rialaig Project has welcomed artists from across the globe, providing them with the solitude and inspiration needed to create.
Among the notable figures who have spent time at Cill Rialaig are writer Seamus Heaney, painter Camille Souter, and photographer John Minihan. Their works, often infused with the spirit of this place, have contributed to its reputation as a cradle of creativity.
Today, Cill Rialaig stands as a testament to the power of art and community. It plays a crucial role in the broader context of Irish culture, helping to preserve and promote the arts in a rural setting. The festival hosted here annually draws participants and audiences eager to experience the synergy between art and nature.
Stories of artists working late into the night, inspired by the crashing Atlantic waves and the rugged landscape, bring Cill Rialaig’s past to life, connecting the rich history of the site with its vibrant present.
