The Salmon of Knowledge: A Gift to Lough Derg

This mural was created by acclaimed artist David Speed and donated to the twin towns of Killaloe–Ballina as part of Resonance Lough Derg, a not-for-profit festival rooted in creativity, ideas, and connection. Painted (with permission) in 2025 on the old co-op building on the Tipperary side of the bridge, it is a public artwork inspired by local mythology, the River Shannon, and the belief that creativity flows from place.

If you’re standing here right now, this wall is part of a bigger story; one that begins with conversation, curiosity, and a deep respect for where we are.

What is Resonance Festival?

Resonance Lough Derg is a small, independent festival that has been running since 2022 which brings intellectual explorers and the culturally curious together to connect, share ideas, and experience something unique on the Irish festival calendar.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Lough Derg, Resonance is about quality conversations, unexpected encounters, and ideas that linger long after the festival has passed. It’s a microfestival, which means no crowds, no queues and more connections. 

Resonance takes place in February, when the light begins to return after winter and people start to imagine what comes next. Resonance Festival’s core theme: creativity and innovation in a place that connects.

Public art fits naturally into that mission. Art invites pause. It creates shared reference points. And when it’s done well, it belongs to everyone!

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About the artist

David Speed first came to Killaloe–Ballina as a speaker at Resonance 2024. The team of volunteers who run the festival were long-time fans of his hugely popular podcast, Creative Rebels, which explores creativity, courage, and the quieter realities of making meaningful work.

His talk ‘Be More Vandal’ really resonated with us. And the depth of local stories made an impression on him. Resonance is not-for-profit, run with minimal funding and a clear intention to grow slowly and sustainably. Knowing this, David offered something rare: not a commission, but a contribution. He wanted to return and leave behind a piece of work for the community. In September 2025, he did exactly that.

David Speed is an acclaimed artist known for thoughtful, site-responsive public works that balance bold visual language with emotional depth. His pieces often explore identity, belonging, and the relationship between people and place.

Visually, David is recognised for his signature neon pink. Beyond painting, he is the host of Creative Rebels, a widely respected podcast featuring conversations with artists, makers, and thinkers navigating creative life with honesty and intent. His work can be found across the UK and internationally, always shaped by context and community rather than imposed upon it.

Inspiration for this piece

The inspiration for this mural came from  a podcast episode from Blindboy Boatclub, Blindboy is a Limerick native, a cultural commentator, storyteller (Seanchaí-style), and bestselling author. His podcast is as educational and smart as it is raw, endearing and avante-guard. A rigorous student of mythology, in one particular episode he happens to give us the origin story of the river Shannon. 

According to Irish mythology, the Salmon of Knowledge (An Bradán Feasa) is intrinsically linked to the River Shannon, as its presence at the source of the river led to the drowning of Síonnan and the creation of the river itself, bearing her name. While Fionn MacCumhaill famously gained its knowledge by eating a piece of it from the River Boyne, the myth connects the salmon to the Shannon’s origins and its source well in County Cavan. 

“I want to go over to that river and stare into it, because I like how the river hypnotises me if I stare into that huge body of flowing water – especially considering I’m in a good headspace –  I want that water to put me into a little daze, to put me into a daydream state, where I can explore my creativity”

The Shannon is a source, a boundary, a connector, and a carrier of stories. For centuries, people have travelled to this precise point, the narrowest point of the river. Knowledge, movement, and livelihood have always flowed through here. This has inspired the team at Resonance. 

You can listen to the episode that inspired the piece here: (Blindboy Boatclub Podcast – River Shannon & Data Centres)

An Ancient Story, Reimagined in Neon Pink

Preparation mattered. Working alongside Draw Out Limerick, the space was thoughtfully prepped, ensuring the mural would last and sit respectfully on the wall. The process involved collaboration, conversation, hard work and luck. Even in September, day one’s work was washed away by the rain. Eventually the clouds broke, and David and the team had a number of days to complete the work. The result is a piece that feels both modern and rooted, bold and calm. A visual interruption that invites reflection rather than demanding attention.

A community effort

Public art, when done well, is never a solo act. This mural would not exist without collective goodwill and support. Resonance Lough Derg would like to acknowledge and thank:

Tipperary County Council, Clare County Council, Draw Out Limerick, The Lakeside Hotel, Flanagans on the Lake, Darren Ryan and Ian Ross. And of course, the artist, David Speed.  And last, but not least – all the local supporters who came out to support!

Where you’re standing;

Right now, you’re standing at a crossing point, between two towns, beside a river that has carried stories for thousands of years. This bridge is now pedestrianised, inviting slower movement, wandering, and reflection. We hope this work gives you a minute to pause and reflect on the many generations of people who have crossed at this point in years gone by. We hope it gives you a reminder that creativity is everywhere, and in everyone. Thank you for reading! 

What’s next?

Right now, you’re standing at a crossing point, between two towns, beside a river that has carried stories for thousands of years. This bridge is now pedestrianised, inviting slower movement, wandering, and reflection. We hope this work gives you a minute to pause and reflect on the many generations of people who have crossed at this point in years gone by. We hope it gives you a reminder that creativity is everywhere, and in everyone. Thank you for reading! 

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