This work addresses the shame embedded amongst women in particular, through attitudes and actions in Ireland and beyond. We share experiences that are typically kept silent; their impact comes to realisation as they are shared and voiced. I have found that poetry allows the space for energy to build and be expelled through an articulated riot-of-sorts. Aspects of this work observe certain traits that women are socialised to avoid. Through constructing body parts from concrete, I look at the interruptions faced when delicately observing creation through a tough, durable material. I see these interruptions as challenges, much like the ones we must overcome navigating modern society, and its histories.
ORNAMENTAL GLITTER is an adjustable installation. In this case, it was built with one cast concrete work, one intact large metal grid, a combination of hooks and magnets, and a series of still images on glossy photographic paper from WhoWhatWhenWhereWhyHowYou! poetry film. It is a work-in-progress, adapting to surrounding space.
A ConTemporary Text~a poem is a temporary wall piece stating: CLOSE ENOUGH NOT TO TOUCH, A PENNY FOR YOUR SILENCED THOUGHTS. How do you interpret it?
Objects as Subjects (of unwanted attention) … benches? arches? sculptures? beautiful hunks of reinforced concrete carefully cast in formwork and end up quite heavy to manoeuvre? They wait for you to cast your eyes upon them, sitting pretty … where is their weak point?
The accompanying audio can be found on YouTube, https://youtu.be/lVtKrzane1U
sound measuring space time (line) is in a sense, a time-based work. In this situation it hung from the ceiling, and as it was moved by the wind some concrete cracked off and fell to the base. It has the capacity to change quickly and drastically depending on its handling.
Prac tic e Sl owl ooking – do what it says on the tin. Practice slow looking, take your time within the space, and think about the multiple ways you can view things, art, people, experiences.
And Rest, Close Enough (Not) To Touch is made up of two life-size cast concrete body parts. They rest together, balanced through touch. This work was acquired for Galway City Council Art Collection 2021.