Artist in Residence: Ciara Lyons at Rotunda ABC

Multi-disciplinary artist and boxing coach Ciara Lyons worked with Rotunda ABC until mid-September 2025. Throughout her residency, Ciara explored a different theme each week, gathering stories from around the club to create a short film, performance and exhibition.

Boxers, coaches and community members used music, movement, photography and storytelling to reflect on their time in the sport – exploring its impact on physical and mental wellbeing, the sense of family and belonging it created, its heritage and future ambitions. These reflections were developed into a film and exhibition piece based on a live performance.

The residency offered a snapshot of one of Liverpool’s many amateur boxing clubs. While such clubs could be found across the city, each had its own lore and legacy. By spending time at Rotunda ABC, Ciara aimed to capture the unique experience of belonging to this club and community.

Ciara’s multi-disciplinary approach integrated creativity, education, empowerment and wellbeing. She had worked with people of all ages and backgrounds and was passionate about driving social change through creativity.

Ciara says:

“It’s an honour to have been chosen as the Artist in Residence at the iconic Rotunda ABC Boxing Club in Kirkdale. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been fortunate to meet so many inspiring and welcoming people – from passionate coaches and dedicated boxers to proud, supportive parents and local supporters of the club.

“I’m excited to continue capturing the true spirit, stories past and present including the future hopes of this outstanding club through creativity and collaboration.”