Historic Appointment: First Artist in Residence at Saint Mary’s Cathedral
I’m absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news with you all. I’ve been appointed as the first-ever Artist in Residence at Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Limerick. This is a truly historic moment for both myself and this magnificent 12th-century cathedral.
This groundbreaking residency runs from mid-September to the end of October 2024. It marks an exciting new chapter in the cathedral’s 856-year history. The theme of my residency, “Echoes in Stone: Landscapes of Memory,” perfectly captures my artistic exploration. It shows how sacred spaces hold human experience and transmit it across centuries.
About the Echoes in Stone Project
As Artist in Residence at Saint Mary’s Cathedral, I’m creating three major oil paintings. These paintings explore the cathedral as a living testament to community life. Each painting will show a different temporal layer of this sacred space:
Ancient Roots & Enduring Spirit
This first painting highlights the foundational elements of Saint Mary’s Cathedral. It also emphasizes the ancient landscape connections. These connections have shaped the cathedral since its founding in 1168. As Limerick’s oldest building still in continuous use, the cathedral connects Ireland’s medieval past to its vibrant present. It serves as a historical bridge.
Layers of Time & Resilience
The second work delves into architectural details that reveal centuries of history embedded within the cathedral’s stones. Through my oil painting technique, I’m capturing carved details and weathered surfaces. Every restored element tells a story of resilience and continuity.
Contemporary Echoes & Community Life
The final painting celebrates Saint Mary’s Cathedral as a vibrant contemporary space where worship, culture, and community intersect daily. This piece reflects the cathedral’s mission to “Welcome In & Reach Out” to all who enter its doors.
Community Tapestry of Voices: Share Your Cathedral Stories
Beyond the three oil paintings, I’m creating something truly special – a “Community Tapestry of Voices.” This collaborative element of my artist residency involves collecting memories and stories from people connected to Saint Mary’s Cathedral.
Were you married here? Did you attend services, visit as a tourist, or simply feel moved by the building’s presence in Limerick’s cityscape? I want to hear from you. Your stories will become part of this artistic exploration of how places hold memory.
Drop-in sessions will be announced soon. Follow my social media @nicilegearart for updates. You can also check back here to know when and where you can share your cathedral connections.
My Journey as an Irish Oil Painter
For those new to my work, I’m a self-taught Irish artist. I transitioned from a career in technology to pursue my passion for oil painting. My artistic focus centers on capturing Ireland’s west coast landscapes, particularly exploring the relationship between landscape and human presence.
My recent work along Limerick’s River Shannon has deeply influenced this cathedral residency. Through my oil paintings, I explore how places hold memory. Human experience is felt rather than explicitly shown. This exploration of invisible histories and emotional landscapes makes Saint Mary’s Cathedral the perfect subject for my artistic inquiry.
Saint Mary’s Cathedral: A Living Heritage Site
Saint Mary’s Cathedral Limerick isn’t just a tourist attraction – it’s a living, breathing center of community life. This remarkable building was founded in 1168. It has witnessed nearly nine centuries of Irish history. Throughout this time, it has maintained its core mission of Christian worship.
Today, the cathedral serves multiple roles. It is a place of worship. It is also a venue for cultural and civic events. Additionally, it is one of Limerick’s major tourist attractions. Saint Mary’s, through its mission, seeks every opportunity to promote love, peace, and justice. It also offers support to the local community.
Supporting the Arts in Limerick
This artist residency in Limerick is possible due to the generous support of the Arts Council. It is also supported by the Limerick City and County Council through the Limerick Arts Programme 2025.
The Dean of Limerick, the Very Rev’d Niall Sloane, expressed his enthusiasm for this historic appointment. “We are delighted to welcome Nici to Saint Mary’s for this ‘first’ in the Cathedral’s long history.” Art and beauty hold great significance for us. We see this residency as another opportunity to engage art, people, and the Cathedral.
Following the Echoes in Stone Journey
I’ll be documenting this incredible artist residency experience throughout September and October. You can follow my progress through:
- Email: info@nicilegear.com
- Instagram: @nicilegearart
- Cathedral Website: www.saintmaryscathedral.ie
This Limerick art residency represents more than just a professional opportunity. It’s a chance to explore how contemporary Irish art can dialogue with ancient sacred spaces. It shows how individual artistic practice can serve community memory. It also demonstrates how oil painting can capture the intangible essence of place and time.
Stay tuned for updates on the Community Tapestry sessions. Look out for work-in-progress glimpses. Lastly, anticipate the final unveiling of “Echoes in Stone: Landscapes of Memory.”
Nici Le Gear is an Irish oil painter specialising in west coast landscapes and explorations of place and memory. Her work has been exhibited throughout Ireland, and she is currently the Artist in Residence at Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick.
