Growing up in a musical family, Genevieve initially felt torn between studying music and pursuing visual art. She explains how that apparent choice became the foundation of her work, leading her to translate musical notation, the human voice and birdsong into jewellery and sculptural forms.

Speaking from her studio at Ardgillan Castle, Genevieve also reflects on studying abroad, the mentors and collaborators who helped realise her ideas, persevering through funding rejections, building relationships with galleries and collectors, and the often unseen professional work involved in sustaining a creative career.

Paddy recalls resisting formal music lessons as a child, before meeting other young musicians—and an inspiring encounter with Donegal fiddler John Doherty—transformed his relationship with the fiddle. He discusses the generosity of the older musicians who encouraged him, the folk revival of the 1970s, his time with The Bothy Band, and his parallel career in broadcasting.

The conversation also explores Paddy’s work with the Arts Council, the importance of education and mentorship, and the remarkable journey of Irish traditional music from the margins to a confident, collaborative and internationally recognised art form.