Photo book & exhibition to celebrate female empowerment

A ground-breaking photo book and accompanying exhibition capturing the essence of female empowerment in modern Ireland will launch in Cork on Women’s Christmas.

Created by retired psychotherapist turned photographer Linda Hanlon, ‘Empower Her’ is a limited-edition book featuring portraits of 54 extraordinary women. The book’s launch will take place at St Peters Visitor & Exhibition Centre on North Main Street, Cork city, this Monday, Nollaig na mBan (Women’s Christmas).

Through her lens, Hanlon showcases the diverse experiences of women who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, women like Dr Linda Doyle, provost, Trinity College Dublin; Sharon Donnery, deputy governor, Central Bank of Ireland; and Commissioner Mairead Mc Guiness MEP.

With a forward written by former president Mary McAleese, Hanlon created ‘Empower Her’ not just as a photography project, but as a testament to the strength and courage of women across Ireland. Out of the 500 copies being published, 100 copies have been donated to schools to help ensure the message of empowerment reaches future generations.

In the wake of a decision to retire early from private practice following a bout of illness and the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, Linda Hanlon embarked on a new chapter in her life. Drawing upon her passion for photography and driven by her curiosity about human nature, particularly the concept of personal empowerment, Hanlon embarked on a journey to capture the stories and images of empowered women across Ireland.

“As a psychotherapist, I've always been fascinated by the concept of personal empowerment. In Ireland, where the echoes of historical oppression still resonate, female empowerment takes on an even greater significance,” said Hanlon.

“Through this project, I wanted to shed light on the untold stories of women who have overcome challenges and emerged as figures of empowerment and to inspire the present and future generations of Irish women for decades to come,” she added.

The book features portraits of the 54 remarkable women, accompanied by quotes reflecting on their journey and the advice they would offer to their younger selves.

“Their willingness to share their stories and vulnerabilities has been both humbling and inspiring. ‘Empower Her’ is a tribute to their courage, strength, and unwavering commitment to empowerment.”

The exhibition will run from 6 January until 1 February, opening daily from Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm.The launch event will see opening remarks by Dr Linda Doyle, Provost TCD, followed by Commander Roberta O’Brien and Ann Doherty, former CE of Cork City Council and current CE of Port of Cork, who participated in the exhibition.

and photo book.