Creative Waterford is thrilled to celebrate artist and writer Corina Duyn, whose extraordinary book In Bed I Cut Words has been awarded First Prize in the Anthologies category at the Carousel Aware Prize for Independent Authors (The CAP Awards). The award was announced by patron and Booker Prize–winning author Paul Lynch at the 2025 Golden CAP Award ceremony in Chapters Bookstore, Dublin, on 10 October.
A powerful and poignant body of work, In Bed I Cut Words is the latest in Corina’s ongoing artistic response to life with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), a condition she has lived with for 26 years. Created from her bed, the book combines collages and written reflections that explore themes of illness, isolation, creativity, and the search for home. It stands as a testament to the power of art to connect, communicate, and heal.
The judging panel wrote:
“We were deeply moved by In Bed I Cut Words – by Corina Duyn, Artist in Care – an original, haunting and beautifully produced book containing words and artworks reflecting on her experiences of severe ME. The book is enhanced by commentary from the artist who supported her and from a range of people involved in her care.
With its selection of voices and striking, thought-provoking collages, this anthology makes a powerful case for the arts in care, helping patients to express themselves and connect with their creativity. Corina addresses evergreen themes: the idea of home, illness, ageing, and loss of independence. Importantly, it highlights the value of creative practice for both in-the-moment enjoyment and self-expression.
These words and images ask for our time and attention – they identify a woman who lives with an all-consuming illness but explores her condition and her world with a truly fine, articulate mind. Authenticity is at the heart of this collection; it’s about being heard and being seen.
Given Corina’s isolation, lack of mobility and often invisibility, this anthology showcases a clear, strong artistic voice. It carries a deep ache for home, a reflection on loss and loneliness, and a celebration of creativity. This is a stunning collection that will stay with us – and that is why we’re happy to award In Bed I Cut Words first place in this category.”
In response to her win, Corina shared her delight on her blog:
“It’s kind of like a little bit of history made. A book created from collages made in bed, with words by many others, and made into a beautiful piece of art by designer David Murphy (Red Heaven Design). It has been loved, shared, and honoured by so many around Ireland and the world.”
The Carousel Aware Prize (CAP) for Independently Published Authors exists to showcase the best of Irish self-publishing — highlighting new voices and professional standards in independent bookmaking. All funds raised support Aware, the charity supporting people experiencing depression, bipolar disorder and related mood conditions.
Creative Waterford was proud to support the publication of In Bed I Cut Words and ensure it reached libraries, arts organisations, and health professionals nationwide, with additional support from the Irish Hospice Foundation. The project exemplifies how creativity can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances, offering connection, visibility and voice.
You can read more about Corina’s work and the paperback edition of In Bed I Cut Words here:
https://thisiswaterford.ie/corina-duyn-launches-paperback-edition-of-in-bed-i-cut-words-on-arts-in-nursing-homes-day/
