Station 2 – Nano Nagle Mural

The Nano Nagle Mural was painted by American artist Ella Yates as a part of a global art project. Ella travelled around the world, creating and inspiring others to create art which explored the life, work and spirit of Nano Nagle. In 2014, Ella visited St Mary’s College and over the period of 21 days painted the Nano Nagle Mural we see today.

Viewing it from right to left, we see Nano’s early years in Paris through to her work as the Lady of the Lantern in Cork. This beautiful image contains many faces of staff and students at St Mary’s at the time, including two students in St Mary’s uniform.

Honora (Nano) Nagle was born into a wealthy Catholic family in 1718. Nano responded in faith to the plight of the poor and disadvantaged in Ireland. By the time she died in 1784, Nano had opened seven schools for poor children across Cork city, founded an alms-house for poor women, and most notably, founded the Presentation Order, who continue her education and social inclusion work today.

Prayer

Eternal and loving Creator,

We gather in humble gratitude for the legacy of Nano Nagle; a beacon of light in times of darkness, a tireless advocate for the marginalised and oppressed.

Grant us the courage to follow in her footsteps, to walk with compassion and kindness, to seek justice for all who suffer.

May her spirit of selfless service inspire us, as we strive to build communities of hope and solidarity.

In Nano’s name, we pray.

Amen.

Paintings of Nano Nagle

Paintings from The Free Social Encyclopedia and Google Arts and Culture portraits of Nano