The artists, from the internationally known, to those just beginning to get established, are selected from many hundreds of applicants for a residency period of up to one month. In return, they donate some of their work to the gallery, where it is sold to help fund the project, which is a registered charity. I have been privileged to have had two periods of residency, in 1998 and 2000. 

The running of the gallery and restoration and maintenance of the cottages provide local employment, and the interaction of the visiting artists from all over the world, with the local people, enriches both communities. Noelle is currently raising money to build a "Tate" gallery in the nearby town of Waterville that will host important exhibitions by artists of international standing, and provide a home for a comprehensive permanent collection of work currently being assembled. This will attract many visitors, as Waterville is on the "Ring of Kerry" tourist route, who may then go on to visit Ballinskelligs.

That the project has achieved so much, often in very difficult circumstances, is due mainly to Noelle’s unflagging commitment, energy and determination. This painting is a tribute to her achievement, which is an inspiration to me. She is a flamboyant, outgoing and gregarious person who loves to entertain in her beautiful house, which has a large purpose-built "banqueting hall". She didn’t want to be alone in the painting, so it was decided to re-create a symbolic banqueting scene with the seven other people in the painting representing those connected with the project, as well as friends and family. Noelle suggested I put myself in the painting. In the background is a view of one the first of the restored cottages.