Modern Languages

Exhibition

Modern Languages21 October 2011 – 11 January 2012

Modern Languages explores the relationships between indigenous craft and contemporary, international creative practice in a time of globalisation. Five artists and designers were invited to respond to traditional Irish craft idioms. Coming from Ireland, Scotland, Canada and Japan, these artists offer new perspectives and interpretations of vernacular traditions that are far removed from Celtic cliché or preconception. Focusing on the intentional adoption or corruption of tradition, each adapts elements of the vernacular to convey meanings that are no longer dictated by geography or historic provenance but by their own research and practice.

The exhibition features work by Ciara Phillips, Nao Matsunaga, Laura Mays, Barbara Ridland and Deirdre Nelson. From Laura Mays’s reincarnations of the traditional Sligo Chair, to Nao Matsunagas’ temporary structure built in homage to the curragh sea boats of the west of Ireland, this exhibition willn offer insightful new understandings of our oldest traditions.

This exhibition is a co-production between the National Craft Gallery, and Galway Arts Festival, Ireland. 

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