Institute of Art & Design Dun Laoghaire - Permanent Installation

A permanent installation created for exploring inclusion, connection, and visibility through the perspective of an Irish Traveller artist.From the beginning, I knew this project could not only represent my own voice. To speak about belonging while excluding others would have felt like a disservice to both the work and my community. This piece became an opportunity to create space for shared experiences, dialogue, and collective representation.I have always been vocal about taking up space and challenging the narrative surrounding Irish Travellers. Every community has its flaws, yet ours is too often defined by a single story. I refuse to accept that narrative.As part of the process, I invited seven current IADT students to contribute their own experiences, identities, and perspectives on what it means to feel welcomed and represented within educational and creative spaces. Their voices became an essential part of the work.Because opportunities to create something permanent are rare, the project began with a typography workshop introducing students and staff to grids, type, composition, and collaborative design processes. These workshops directly informed the final installation.Together, we chose the word TOGETHER — a reflection of the project’s core message of connection and belonging. Each letter was designed differently through varying forms, colours, and visual languages, representing the individuality of each contributor. Distinct on their own, but stronger as a collective whole.The repetition of the word in sequences of three also carries symbolic meaning. Across many cultures and traditions, the number three represents balance, unity, and continuity; past, present, and future; mind, body, and spirit. It felt fitting for a work rooted in identity, community, and shared space.