Cork in 50 Artworks: Celtic Warrior: The Legend of Cú Chulainn, by Will Sliney 

No 2:  Will Sliney has achieved international fame for his work on Spider-Man, but the Ballycotton artist's take on an Irish hero holds a special place in his heart  

A detail from Celtic Warrior: The Legend of Cú Chulainn, by Will Sliney.

Becoming a Marvel or DC Comics creator is the pinnacle for many an aspiring comics artist or writer, and Ballycotton’s Will Sliney achieved that dream in 2013. He surpassed it the following year when he signed an exclusive Marvel contract to become the artist for Spider-Man 2099. He has also contributed to the Star Wars universe. Could anything surpass illustrating some of the most recognisable characters in popular culture?

Yes. The same year in which he realised a lifelong ambition to work for Marvel saw the publication of his great passion project, Celtic Warrior: The Legend of Cú Chulainn. Published domestically by O’Brien Press, this is a subject that holds a sentimental attachment for the artist as the hero is a character he wanted to bring to life since childhood.