Acclaimed artist Jesse Presley Jones is the Course Coordinator for a unique Visual Art Degree Programme in West Cork - she takes a trip to Sherkin Island below.
Life often takes unexpected turns, leading us away from the paths we thought we were destined to follow. Careers, family commitments, and the hustle of everyday life can overshadow our passions and dreams. Yet, sometimes, fate intervenes, offering us a chance to rediscover our true calling. If you're reading this, perhaps it's your sign to embark on a journey of creative exploration.
Off the coast of stunning West Cork lies Sherkin Island, a haven that not only captivates artists from diverse backgrounds but also hosts a transformative BA Visual Art Degree Programme. As applications open for the academic year 2024/2025, this opportunity beckons those ready to reconnect with their artistic aspirations.
Established in 2000 and accredited in 2007, the BA Visual Art Degree Programme, facilitated by the TU Dublin School of Art and Design, infuses Sherkin Island with artistic vibrancy. Students, hailing from all corners of Ireland and diverse walks of life, converge on this picturesque island to pursue their passion for visual arts. What sets this programme apart is its flexibility, allowing students to work full-time while earning their degree.
Sherkin Island stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and education.
Every second weekend, students board the ferry to Sherkin for lectures and coursework, circumventing the high rental costs often associated with city living. This unique blend of academia and island life fosters a nurturing environment where creativity flourishes.
Over the years, the BA Visual Art Degree Programme has garnered national and international acclaim, earning recognition as a beacon of arts education. Graduates emerge not just as artists but as resilient individuals, equipped with both creativity and practicality. Some forge successful careers as independent artists, while others contribute to community enrichment through art-focused organisations.
As the course coordinator, I can firmly state that all lecturers and facilitators understand that every student's artistic journey is unique. That's why our programme is designed to nurture creativity and develop skills across various mediums. Guided by expert faculty, students embark on a four-year odyssey, driven by their passions and inspired by the island's beauty.
As a new cohort prepares to commence their journey in September, the current fourth year students are preparing their final show. Their graduate exhibition, Beyond the Frame; an all-island, two-day installation of artwork on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th May will be followed by a showcase at Uillinn: West Cork Arts Centre from May 25th to 15th June, marks the culmination of their artistic evolution.
Sherkin Island stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and education. It's a place where dreams are nurtured, talents are honed, and individuals find their true calling. If you're yearning to reignite your creative spark, perhaps Sherkin Island is where your journey begins.
Find out more here.
BA (hons) in Visual Art is a community-based, four-year, honours degree, visual art programme based on Sherkin Island. It is fully accredited, managed and delivered by the Dublin School of Art and Design, Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) in partnership with Sherkin Island Development Society (SIDS) and Uillinn: West Cork Arts Centre, and is part-funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Cork County Council. The programme will run subject to continued funding.
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