All on track at the Crawford, plus a few surprises
From old library tickets lurking under floorboards, to parking tickets and hidden fireplaces, the ongoing renovations at Crawford Art Gallery have uncovered some very interesting finds.
Now eight months into its multi-million euro regeneration, things are going according to plan at the gallery in what is the largest cultural construction project currently on site in Cork.
As things stand, the team at Crawford anticipate handover of the building back to them in mid-2028. They will then need a number of months to reinstall the artworks and get all services operating, with a late-2028 opening a strong possibility.
“Our focus is now firmly on returning to the building,” said Mary McCarthy, director of Crawford Art Gallery.
She continued: “Over the coming months we will continue planning every aspect of reopening, from the reinstallation of the collection to visitor services, a complete rebrand, digital platforms and future staffing. We have also acquired several important new works through generous donations and look forward to sharing them with visitors when the gallery reopens.”
Alongside essential work to protect the much-loved building for generations to come, the redevelopment looks to enhance everything people love about Crawford while creating a gallery of international standard in the heart of Cork city.
Staff moved out of the building on 12 January this year, marking an emotional milestone for the team after months of carefully moving the collection from the gallery.
Leadership at the gallery have confirmed that work is progressing smoothly, however, nothing could have prepared them for the surprises opening up such and old building would bring.
From summons letters and library tickets found under floors, to parking tickets, many cigarette packs, match boxes, and additional historic fireplaces found hidden under panelling, the team Crawford are being kept busy carefully protecting and documenting the finds.Among the most fascinating discoveries are the markings left by generations of craftsmen on the building's timber structures. These are also being carefully documented as the work progresses – evidence of careful hands contributing to the building’s story over time. There are archaeologists on site at all times, ensuring that work is carried out respectfully and that anything that is uncovered is recorded.
Meanwhile, work is well underway on the building's front façade. Windows, brickwork, slates, and railings are all being restored, the clock is undergoing conservation, and the new build will shortly start to emerge and be visible over the next few months.
The extension is going to be a significant one for Crawford, bringing new public spaces, purpose-built collection storage, a new Learn & Explore Centre, additional galleries, a new café, improved accessibility, and remarkable new views across the city.
In line with the expansion, the Crawford has also begun a recruitment drive for a number of new roles at the gallery upon its reopening. For more information on these roles and to apply, visit crawfordartgallery.ie/vacancies.
“We will continue to update you all throughout the redevelopment. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy this glimpse behind the scrim and feel reassured that everyone involved is working carefully, collaboratively, and with great ambition to deliver the national cultural institution that Crawford—and Cork—deserve,” said Ms McCarthy.
A further update on the project’s progress and anticipated reopening will be shared in mid-2027.