Schull Creates, a new community-led arts group in West Cork, is hoping to secure a permanent base where they can plan, create, and deliver a host of events while expanding access to the arts in the local community.
Through engaging with local history and folklore and using visual art and storytelling, the voluntary group aims to celebrate the unique stories of the area. They also plan to enhance collaboration with schools and community groups, create largescale public art projects, and continue their signature participatory events.
Born in 2023 out of a shared desire to reignite local festivities and celebrate the area’s rich cultural heritage, Schull Creates was founded by a group of likeminded individuals. At the helm is a core team of organisers, including creative director Siobhán McGibbon, a visual artist renowned for her imaginative world-building, and Helen O’Keeffe, an artist and manager of The Blue House Gallery. They’re supported by a creative crew of over 30 members, comprising artists, creatives, and community members eager to contribute or learn new skills. The group’s inclusive ethos ensures that community participation is always at the heart of its projects, with over 100 people involved in their recent Halloween parade.
Inspired by the story of The Lady Charlotte, a shipwreck that occurred near Schull Harbour in 1838, the group brought the tragedy to life using visual art, storytelling, drama, and sound design. Dave Harte crafted a ghostly replica of the ship, which became the centerpiece of the event. Collaborations with artist Siobhán McGibbon and Scoil Mhuire National School brought the story into the classroom, with children participating in a multidisciplinary arts project. Artist Petrina Shortt led the creation of sea-themed costumes, while sound engineer Daragh Murphy added a bespoke soundscape to the parade, transforming the streets of Schull into a hauntingly immersive world.
This community effort culminated in a dazzling parade of gulls, jellyfish, skeletons, and the majestic ghost ship making its way to the pier, captivating locals and visitors alike.
While The Lady Charlotte parade highlights the group’s creativity and community spirit, a permanent space would serve as a hub for planning and artistic development, ensuring that the group can continue its mission of bringing people together and celebrating the area’s rich history and culture. With plans to deepen collaborations with schools, expand their roster of public events, and create new opportunities for learning and participation, Schull Creates is poised to leave an even larger imprint on the local arts scene.
Schull Creates would not be where it is today without the dedication of its members, the goodwill of the local community, and support from organisations like Cork County Council.
As they look ahead to their next chapter, the group is calling on the community to join them in shaping this exciting group.
