International exhibition launched in Waterford Gallery of Modern Art

Breaking the Patterns exhibition is the final result of a three-month residency in Lisbon for Waterford artist Caoilfhionn Hanton. 

She told the News and Star that her time in Lisbon was, “transformative.” Upon arriving in Lisbon she had no idea what she would create.

“We were all terrified,” she said. 

But she was determined to “explore and play.” She befriended a local framer in Lisbon and decided to make a documentary about his work.

She thanked Phi Convey, the artist mentor at Capacity Ireland. Ms. Convey said: “Meeting them [the artists] at the beginning and seeing how their practice developed was an honour.”

She is one of 14 artists who were part of the programme funded by local arts offices, Capacity Ireland and Creative Europe.

The programme is designed to inspire early career artists.

Director of Capacity, Daniel Smith said: "Developed through three month-long residencies in Crete and Lisbon, the works respond to new cultures, places, people, and climates. Indeed, many of the artworks interacted with landscape and climate of Lisbon and Crete."

Speaking about the process of working with the artists throughout their residency, assistant arts officer for Wexford Una Cahill said: “Their chins are up, their shoulders are back. Something has shifted.” 

 Curator, Director & founder, GOMA Gallery, Jenna Whealen said: “The body of work reveals a shared exploration of strength, resilience, stability, and tradition. Traditions foster strong social ties and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for resilience and inner strength. At the same time, cross-cultural exchanges such as these encourage artists to move beyond the familiar – expanding connections, references, and methodologies – and to pursue bold, experimental new directions"

The launch party was bustling with writers, artists, musicians, friends and family. A new Waterford band named the Mulligans (Anthony Roche, Pob O’Brien and Dylan Bible) played punk trad music in the back courtyard.

 People enjoyed the mild evening and welcoming space. 

It is clear that despite economic hardship, Waterford’s community of artists is thriving.

The exhibition showcases the artworks of 14 artists in total (Ireland-based, Crete-based and Lisbon-based artists): Roibí O Rua, Larry Dunne, Ally Nolan, Cúan Cusack, Despina Liopiari, James Wellwood, Mariana Lourenço, Niamh Twomey, Luke McAleenan, Luca Cosentino, Chloë O’Brien Bates, Caoilfhionn Hanton, Elyssa McDonagh, Elena Stavropoulou.

The exhibition will run until October 25. GOMA gallery opens daily from 11am - 5pm, and is closed on Sundays and Mondays.