Long-term public art project continues at Cork city park

Arts and architecture have come together in Tramore Valley Park.

The 2026 KinShip EcoLab programme, which was recently launched, is a long-term public art project which explore how communities can respond to landscapes shaped by environmental change.

Located on a remediated former landfill, the project brings together artists, ecologists, and the public to engage with questions of care, responsibility, and shared use of public land.

Central to the project is den talamh ('of the ground'), an award-winning structure or ‘EcoLab’ designed by Fuinneamh Workshop Architects with Civil and Structural Engineering Advisors Ltd for creative climate actions, activities and meetings.

Speaking at the recent launch, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Tony Fitzgerald praised the initiative. “The EcoLab is well worth a visit to see what is possible when the arts and architecture collaborate on climate matters with local support. This unique structure, possibly the only public construction of its kind, draws directly from the park’s history.

“The 2026 EcoLab programme challenges us to carefully consider the materials and methods we use while providing a special space for everyone to get involved in climate action and education, even if that action is simply connecting creatively with nature in an inspiring shelter.”

Hand built using rammed earth sourced locally and traditional techniques, The EcoLab is a frequent nominee of national and international architectural awards.The launch event included a screening of ‘Den Talamh’, a short film by Linda Curtin documenting the construction of the EcoLab, alongside contributions from prior KinShip programme artists and participants.