Arts 2024 highlights: Laura Smith

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Laura Smith

Visual artist

Best County Cavan arts event: Cavan Arts Festival is a creative powerhouse that transforms the town every summer. Led by Kim McCafferty and the incredible team, it bursts with energy and imagination, it’s always one to look forward to.

One to watch: Laura O’Connor’s curation of the Scenic Roots exhibition at the Town Hall and her involvement in the exciting Array Collective showcase her creative talents. She has already achieved remarkable success, but it feels like she’s only beginning her journey.

At the opening of Scenic Roots exhibition in the Town Hall Cavan: Laura Fitzgerald, Artist; Narissa Cosgrove, Town Hall Cavan; Siobhan McGibbon, Artist; Joe Keenan, Artist Liasion; T.P. O'Reilly, Cathaoirleach Cavan Co Co; Lisa Fingelton, Artist; Maria McKinney, Artist and Laura O'Connor Curator. Photo: Adrian Donohoe. Photo by Adrian Donohoe

Best film: My vote goes to the chaotic and hilarious Kneecap. This trio deliver electrifying performances and are one of the leading forces of the Irish language resurgence. As someone who spent 13 years learning Irish but left school with little more than ‘Is maith liom bainne’, I’m all for encouraging a fresh engagement with our native language.

Best book: This summer, I was moved by Notes to Self by Emilie Pine. This collection of searingly honest essays offers an unfiltered glimpse into the author’s life. It’s an incredibly brave and poignant work, but a word of advice: don’t read it in public - as there will be tears!

Best theatre: Michael Keegan Dolan and Teac Damsa’s Nobodaddy is an absolute explosion of creativity. I first encountered their work, Mám, in Mullahoran GAA clubhouse, a venue which provided a wonderful opportunity to merge diverse facets of Irish culture. I’ve followed their work ever since and it’s always a joyous experience.

Best TV: Season five of Fargo is gripping from the very first episode. As a fan of the Coen brothers’ original movie, I can confidently say the anthology series lives up to its legacy. With intricate storylines, compelling characters, and stellar performances, it has earned a permanent spot in my top five TV shows of all time.

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