COPE Galway and local artist, Tracey Moca, will work together to uplift the exterior of Fairgreen Hostel, an emergency residence for men experiencing homelessness. Located prominently in Galway, the exterior of Fairgreen Hostel is worn and gives a bleak impression. This project will see a large mural introduced to the back of the Fairgreen Hostel wall (facing Fairgreen Road) and other murals created inside the Fairgreen Courtyard.

Men experiencing homelessness are often marginalised from society. The men we work with may have limited resources, been uplifted from their communities, face a breakdown in family relationships and face the stigma of homelessness. The stigma attached to homelessness is visualised through the bleak appearance of Fairgreen Hostel. 

The artist, Tracey Moca, will work with residents at Fairgreen Hostel to inform the design of the murals. We see this as an opportunity to challenge narratives around homelessness by creating engaging artistic designs. They will present people experiencing homelessness as people, with their own past-experiences, preferences, hopes and dreams, sense of humour, etc.

Through a series of facilitated workshops, residents at Fairgreen will share their input and determine the design of the murals. Residents will be encouraged to actively take part during preparation and artwork.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.