Living Legends
A Cross-Border Cultural Exchange of Stories, Myth, and Landscape
A journey together around the island of Ireland
Living Legends brought together young people from Belfast and Limerick, bridging the gap in distance and understanding between them, and giving them an opportunity to express and develop their creativity. Thanks to funding from Creative Ireland through the Shared Island Initiative, the project included artist-led workshops and three residentials that took place in: Doolin, Co. Clare and Inis Mór, Co. Galway; Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim; and Carlingford Adventure Centre, Co. Louth.
With the support and collaboration of project partners R-City, Festival in a Van and NI Youth Forum, and artists from around Ireland, the 23 participants in the project were able to express their creativity through a variety of mediums, such as writing, costume design, screenwriting and more. What really stood out were the bonds and connections formed between all of the young people who took part in Living Legends. They went from mostly strangers who knew almost nothing about Limerick or Belfast, to fast friends who have formed friendships that will last a lifetime.
Engaging in artist-led workshops, Narrative 4 Story Exchange’s and various team building activities as well as visiting iconic sites of cultural and historical significance around Ireland during the residentials granted them the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of each other, as well as the island of Ireland that we all share and call home.
The Living Legends project culminated in January 2026 with the launch of the Living Legends Anthology Book, showcasing the participants’ artistic creations and friendships formed. It was officially launched by Jennifer Moroney-Ward, CEO of Paul Partnership. She was joined by Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, and Ciara Carroll, Communications Manager of Creative Ireland, in celebrating the momentous occasion with all the participants.
Read the Anthology Here!
Living Legends was launched by Mayor of Limerick John Moran.
Photography Deirdre Power
Gallery
March 2014
Participant Feedback
“I swear to God, I am so happy now that I actually did this. I talked myself into taking part and now I think it turned out to be the best decision I could ever have made.”
“I think it’s made me more comfortable meeting new people and making new friendships, and knowing that no matter where you go or no matter who you meet, you can build something off of it.”
“Living Legends helps you grow your creative side and your artistic side as well, and you get to meet new people and have fun.”
“It’s shown me that I’m capable of doing stuff that I didn’t think I would have been able to do, and let me make friendships that mean a lot to me.”
Media Coverage
https://www.ilovelimerick.ie/living-legends-anthology-limerick-belfast/