We Were Always Here presents Cork’s LGBTQ+ history through an engaging, multi-media exhibition that explores community, connection, resilience and resistance. Drawing on archival material, significant objects, photographs and personal belongings, the exhibition highlights the activism and community networks that helped shape contemporary Ireland.

The exhibition design combines physical, graphic and interactive elements to create an accessible and immersive visitor experience. A recreated telephone booth, covered in helpline stickers, references the vital support networks available to the LGBTQ+ community. Spinning information tiles provide an interactive way to explore key stories and events, while archival material is displayed in cases and drawers to encourage closer engagement with the collection.

The exhibition design was informed by a series of co-design workshops funded through Cork City Council’s Creative Community Grant. These workshops provided opportunities for community participation and helped shape the interpretation, visual language and interactive elements of the exhibition.

A large newspaper collage captures historic attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community during the period when helplines and support organisations were most active, reflecting the prejudice and discrimination of the time. This sits alongside a vibrant poster collage, bringing together campaign material and community ephemera.

Exhibition Production supported by Darac, Setworks, Snap and Hacketts.