A well-known Killarney musician has been honoured in a striking new artwork made entirely from recycled bottle caps.

Local artist Elhaji Conde has created a mosaic portrait of his friend Liam O’Connor, the celebrated musician and performer.
The piece, titled “The Art of Performing”, shows Liam with his accordion and is made from 5,482 bottle caps collected locally.
“At first glance it’s the colours and textures that catch your eye, but when you look closer each cap feels like it has its own story to tell, much like Liam’s music,” said Elhaji. “This artwork doesn’t just show Liam’s face, it captures his spirit. It’s a reminder that great music doesn’t simply disappear when the last tune is over. It carries on, inspiring people, sparking memories, and even turning up in unexpected forms like this mosaic portrait.”
Liam O’Connor said he was “blown away” by the work.

Killarney Aikido Club is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

The club was founded in 2005 by Seamus Whitty (4th Dan) and Anthony O’Leary (3rd Dan) and has taught hundreds of students since then.

To mark the milestone, the club is starting a six-week beginners’ course on Thursday, October 2nd from 7.00pm to 8.15pm at the Killarney Sports and Leisure Complex.

It is open to anyone aged 15 and over with no previous experience needed.

The course will cover basic techniques, safe falling drills, breathing exercises and an introduction to the principles behind Aikido.

Classes will be led by experienced instructors under the Irish Aikido Federation and the Aikikai Foundation in Japan.

“Aikido is not just about self-defence. For 20 years our mission has been to share it as a path to self-discovery and personal growth,” said Seamus Whitty, co-founder of the club.

Regular club nights continue on Mondays and Thursdays from 8.00pm to 9.45pm at the Killarney Sports Complex.

For more information or to book a place on the beginners’ course, contact Seamus Whitty on 087 123 5994.