East Cork 1

Just back from an amazing couple of days in East Cork. I am taking a group of artists to this holy well in June and I needed to do a recce, rumours were that it was now closed off. Off we went, stopping first in the Sirius Gallery, Cobh and checking out Marie Brett's exhibition is that is connected to the well visit. The exhibition was only just going up but one room was devoted to her videos . I'm not usually a fan of  conceptual video but this was stunning work : disturbing and profound - the hairs on my neck were vibrating. You can see her work here.  We had a wander around Cobh which was looking amazing in the vibrant sunshine and then had an al fresco lunch followed by an ice cream on the prom. 

The well was also looking wonderful and we talked to the landowner who couldn't have been nicer and was most welcoming. This is the perfect well in my opinion, it has everything - sacred tree, whitewashed walls offerings, shrines, cures, blessed fish, an extraordinary carved stone and tons of folklore.  Dedicated to the BVM, the setting is extraordinary - next to the massive pylon. It's in a townland called Titeskin which is not pronounced anything remotely like that. 

Our B&B was delightful: fresh scones on arrival and a huge room. We went into Ballycotton to enjoy the rest of the weather - walked the cliff path and then had fish and chips and a large glass of wine (me) in the very busy village. 

I'm bombarding you with extras which will go soon!