The Brilliant Ballybunion project is delighted to welcome Uachtarán na hÉireann, President Catherine Connolly and Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan to Ballybunion next Friday 30th January. Both will attend ‘What if We Were Brilliant?’, a celebration event to mark the culmination of our dynamic, community-led, creative climate action initiative. Over the last two years the Brilliant Ballybunion group has been focusing on growing food, being creative and protecting nature.
President Catherine Connolly. Photographer Emilija Jefremova
This free event will feature talks, films and artworks by artist Lisa Fingleton and community collaborators, as well as the launch of a reflective learning brief and an inspiring new book : What If We Were Brilliant?. The programme will also include a live performance of newly commissioned music by local singer-songwriter Sailhymn.
Speaking about the event, project manager Grainne Toomey says; “We are so proud of our community and all the commitment that everyone has shown for the last two years. This is wonderful recognition the community and the work of Brilliant Ballybunion, and the newly formed Ballybunion Nature Group”.
Lisa Fingleton, the project artist says; “It has been brilliant to see the power of the imagination and creativity. We are delighted to have created a beautiful new book titled ‘What if We Were Brilliant?’, which documents our journey over the last two years. It is so full of hope and potential. The book was written by the project team and other contributors. It was designed by Stephanie Sheahan and published by The Barna Way”.
Speaking about the project, Tania Banotti, Director of Creative Ireland says; “What is truly brilliant about this project is the joy and positivity it exudes, not just within the community of Ballybunion but throughout the other spaces and communities it connects with”.
Booking via Eventbrite is essential: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/what-if-we-were-brilliant-tickets-1981330368468?aff=oddtdtcreator
Time: Date: 1pm – 3.30pm Friday 30th January 2026
Time: Location: Tinteán Theatre, Ballybunion, Co. Kerry V31Y198
We are very grateful to Creative Ireland and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport for supporting this initiative through the Creative Climate Action Fund.
Project website: www.brilliantballybunion.com
