Last week, Karen from Ardkeen Library had the pleasure of visiting the Waterford Tipperary CYS Youth Club as they got stuck into something really special – the early stages of their mural project for this year’s Cruinniú na nÓg. The atmosphere was buzzing with creativity, laughter, and a deep sense of pride.
This vibrant group, made up of young people aged between 14 and 22, are taking the lead on a large-scale project that will see three murals added to the outside of their Youth Club building. It’s an ambitious and exciting endeavour – and one that’s clearly being met with buckets of imagination and teamwork.
Over the past few weeks, the group has been planning, sketching, and brainstorming. Now, their designs are nearly ready to hit the walls – quite literally. What stood out most was how personal and meaningful each concept was. Every mural tells a story of who they are, where they’ve come from, and what their community means to them.
One of the murals will feature handprints from every single Youth Club member, from the youngest at age 7 to the oldest at 23. This beautiful idea captures the spirit of growth and progression – a visual timeline of friendship, support, and belonging that celebrates each young person’s journey through the club.
Another mural comes from the incredibly talented Coco, a 22-year-old graphic design student who has been part of the club since she was just 8. Now, she’s not only still attending but also giving back by mentoring and inspiring younger members. Her mural design is striking and contemporary – a testament to her skill and her love for the space that helped shape her.
The final mural is a collaborative piece created by the teenage members of the group. Each one is contributing a section in their own unique style, weaving together a patchwork of personalities, perspectives, and creative flair. It’s a beautiful metaphor for youth work itself – giving space for individuality while building something greater together.
There’s a palpable sense of ownership and pride in this project. It’s not just about painting walls – it’s about making a mark, claiming space, and celebrating the role of youth services in young people’s lives. We can’t wait to see the final murals unveiled as part of Cruinniú na nÓg, and we have no doubt they’ll brighten more than just the building – they’ll spark conversations, smiles, and inspiration for years to come.