Discover Ireland’s Hidden Creators in New Video Series Leviathan

An original new video series is set to shine a spotlight on Ireland’s remarkable food, craft, and music scene. Leviathan, a nine-part travel and cooking series, celebrates the country’s vibrant creative culture, showcasing the stories of wild food foragers, artisan makers, organic farmers, and musicians.

Produced independently by BYOC Films and led by chef, musician, and photojournalist James Gabriel Martin, Leviathan explores the deep connections between Ireland’s heritage, traditions, and sustainability. 

James says: “I’ve spent my working life travelling the world, first as a freelance photojournalist with clients such as Lonely Planet and the BBC, and then as a touring musician. Visiting so many diverse places brings with it a real sense of perspective, and I have always been drawn home to what makes Ireland special.“

He adds: “We have something truly special here, a spirit of creativity and kinship, especially when it comes to food and culture, and I wanted to meet the champions of these things.”

Must-Watch Moments in Leviathan

The series premieres this spring, with its first episode highlighting Woodcock Smokery in West Cork, where Sally-Ferns Barnes, an icon in sustainable food practices, shares her expertise in preserving wild fish. It also features traditional songs about the sea in Irish, with a group of local singers joining James and Sally at The Keep, the educational space on site. 

Subsequent episodes feature inspiring Irish creators, including:

• The Irish Seed Savers – Guardians of Ireland’s heritage apple varieties and seed bank, preserving rare vegetable seeds for future generations.

• Fermoyle Pottery – A husband-and-wife team (Stephen O'Connell and Alexis Bowman) crafting stunning ceramics in Co. Kerry using local materials like powdered slate dust and wood ash.

• Forage & Find – Kevin O’Connell who forages around the county of Cork brings wild plants to life with recipes that connect ancient traditions to modern kitchens.

Celebrate Ireland’s Heritage

Through stunning visuals, intimate interviews, and hands-on demonstrations, Leviathan captures Ireland’s unique blend of creativity, community, and connection to the land.

Leviathan will debut on YouTube and on www.LeviathanFood.com

Don’t miss this journey into the heart of Ireland’s food, craft, and music culture.