Material Supports studio research trip to IMMA

8 Oct 2026

Supported by a UCC Strategic Alignment of Teaching and Learning award, fourth year students from the 'Material Supports' Studio led by Tara Kennedy and Dr. John McLaughlin undertook a research trip to the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Dublin on the 8th and 9th of October. Supported by a UCC Strategic Alignment of Teaching and Learning award, fourth year students from the Material Supports Studio led by Tara Kennedy and Dr. John McLaughlin undertook a field trip to the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Dublin on the 8th and 9th of October. Over two days students were ‘in residence’ at the artists’ studios on site, visited exhibitions, undertook field research, and met with staff from IMMA including Sheena Barrett (Head of Research and Learning) and Lisa Moran (Curator: Engagement and Learning). They enjoyed a biodiversity tour of the grounds of IMMA with Sandra Murphy from the Visitor Engagement Team, as well as a fascinating presentation on the history of the site by cultural historian Dr. Lisa Godson who is currently writing a monograph on the history of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham/Irish Museum of Modern Art. As part of their visit to Dublin students also had the chance to preview the inaugural exhibition ‘A Visual Conversation’ at The Great Margo, and to attend the launch of Open House Dublin. It was a packed and inspiring few days with thanks to SATLE funding from the HEA and UCC, and the generosity of IMMA and those who engaged with the students on site.