Accenture Women on Walls Project Unveils 11 Portraits of Munster Trailblazers at UCC

University College Cork has unveiled a new portrait series. It features 11 pioneering women from Munster. The event happened in late 2025 at the university’s Aula Maxima.

The initiative is part of the Accenture Women on Walls project. It aims to increase the visibility of women’s achievements in public institutions. These portraits will become a permanent part of the UCC art collection.

Celebrating Courage and Leadership Through Art

The selected women were chosen from over 600 public nominations. A UCC panel made the final selections in 2024. They sought individuals who demonstrated exceptional impact and vision.

The honorees include literary giant Edna O’Brien and educator Nano Nagle. Disability rights activist Joanne O’Riordan is also featured. The list includes advocates, artists, and community leaders like Mary Crilly and Caitríona Twomey.

According to UCC President Professor John O’Halloran, these women shaped society with courage. He stated the portraits honor a remarkable legacy. They also aim to inspire future generations.

A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Visibility

Four Irish artists were commissioned to create the portraits. They were selected via a competitive process managed by Business to Arts. Their work captures the spirit of each subject.

Accenture Ireland provided key support for the project. Managing Director Michelle Cullen highlighted the project’s goal. She said it addresses the historical imbalance in who we celebrate publicly.

The portraits are more than just artwork. They serve as a daily reminder of diverse leadership. They are intended to spark conversation and reflection on campus.

The Accenture Women on Walls project successfully brings long-overdue recognition to Munster’s female pioneers. This powerful display at UCC ensures their stories and contributions remain visible and inspiring for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Accenture Women on Walls project?

It is an initiative supported by Accenture Ireland. The project commissions portraits of impactful women for display in public institutions. Its goal is to correct historical gender imbalances in representation.

How were the women for the UCC portraits chosen?

The university received over 600 public nominations in 2024. A panel of UCC staff and student leaders then reviewed all submissions. They selected 11 women with strong ties to Munster and transformative societal contributions.

Who are some of the women featured in the portraits?

The honorees include author Edna O’Brien and founder of the Presentation Sisters, Nano Nagle. Activist Joanne O’Riordan and several other community leaders are also featured. Each woman was chosen for her pioneering work and courage.

Where can the public view these new portraits?

The portraits are permanently installed in the Aula Maxima at University College Cork. They are part of the university’s permanent art collection. The display is accessible to students, staff, and campus visitors.

Why is corporate support like Accenture’s important for such projects?

Corporate partnerships provide crucial funding and visibility for cultural initiatives. Accenture’s support enables the artistic commission and installation. This collaboration helps drive a broader conversation about inclusion and representation in Ireland.