Waterford's 'Behind the Bite' exhibition to arrive at Cork Airport

Waterford's Festival of Food is bringing its visually striking portrait exhibition ‘'Behind the Bite: A Portrait Series of Our Local Food Heroes' to Cork Airport this January.

From Thursday, January 2 to Thursday, January 30, passengers and visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this evocative black-and-white series, celebrating the trailblazers behind Waterford’s thriving food scene.

Commissioned by Waterford Festival of Food, the exhibition debuted at Curran’s Store on Dungarvan’s Quayside during this year’s festival and has since captured attention across the region, including at the renowned Ballymaloe Food Festival.

Now, it is due to arrive at Cork Airport to shine a light on the talent, passion, and dedication of Waterford’s food innovators.

With 40 captivating black-and-white portraits by Cork-based photographer Joleen Cronin, ‘Behind the Bite’ reveals the faces behind the flavours of Waterford.

From bakers and brewers to cheesemakers and artisan producers, each portrait tells a unique story, celebrating the individuals who craft and elevate the region’s exceptional food culture.

READ MORE: RTÉ on the look out for hospitality businesses in Waterford for new series of At Your Service

Some faces in the series may already be familiar to visitors, while others will be fascinating discoveries.

Each image captures the unique passion and pride these individuals infuse into their craft, making this exhibition both a testament to Waterford’s rich food heritage and a celebration of those who shape it.

Eunice Power, Waterford Festival of Food CEO, said, “This exhibition is a celebration of the incredible food community here in Waterford, and I’m delighted to bring it to Cork Airport, which is a gateway point for those visiting the South East from overseas. It is a source of pride to introduce travellers to the food credentials of our region.

"Each portrait in 'Behind the Bite' tells a story of passion, hard work, and dedication, showcasing the people behind beloved local flavours and well-loved brands. Food is so much more than sustenance here in Dungarvan and Waterford—it’s our way of life. We grow it, craft it, and celebrate it, and it brings us together in the best ways. Sharing this at Cork Airport is an amazing way to inspire those who crave authentic experiences and to raise the profile of Waterford as a premier gastronomic destination,” he joyfully added. 

As one of Ireland’s leading food festivals, the Waterford Festival of Food has become a standout event on the culinary calendar over the past 15 years. It attracts visitors from Ireland and beyond to celebrate the rich gastronomic talent of Dungarvan and its surrounding areas.

This year’s food festival takes place from Friday, April 25, to Sunday, April 27, 2025—be sure to save the date!

For further information, go here or follow @waterfordfestivaloffood on social media.