New mural in Cork City celebrates people living with HIV

A new mural has been unveiled in Cork city that celebrates people living with HIV.

Commissioned by the Sexual Health Centre, the piece was created by artists Shane O'Driscoll and Peter Martin of Ardú, which is a Cork-based contemporary street art project. The group have produced several murals by both Irish and international artists in prominent locations around the city.

The mural, located on Drinen Street at Sullivan's Quay, depicts two hands reaching toward each other. They are entwined in a red ribbon, to create a visual message of connection, solidarity, and community.

The red ribbon is the symbol of solidarity with people living with HIV/AIDS. The Sexual Health Centre aims to celebrate the lives and experiences of people living with HIV with the mural, while also challenging the stigma and outdated perceptions surrounding the illness.

Chief Executive of the Sexual Health Centre, Fiona Finn shared a statement about the artwork.

"This mural is a celebration of people living with HIV and of the strength, resilience, connection and community that exists around them. We wanted to create something visible and positive in the heart of Cork city that reflects how far we have come.

"Art has an incredible ability to start conversations and to change how we see the world around us. We hope this mural will be a joyful and visible celebration of people living with HIV."

Shane O'Driscoll of Ardú commented on the collaborative element of the mural.

"Having held a workshop with the community in the SHC, we gained a deeper understanding of people living with HIV and what themes, imagery and messaging to use within the creation of the artwork.

"It was very much a collaboration with those that provided insights and knowledge to myself and Peter and we hope it’s positive message is felt throughout the city and beyond."

The Sexual Health Centre is a non-profit organisation based in Cork city. It was originally set up as Cork AIDS Alliance in 1987. It continues to provide HIV support, along with a range of sexual health services.

See more images of the new mural below:

Credit: Darragh Kane.

Credit: Darragh Kane.