Nourish is a compelling exhibition for all art enthusiasts
Attending were Sarah Leahy, Conall Boomer, Anne Maher and Katie Tierney. Photo: John Power
Brendan Keane The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Waterford is currently the venue for an intriguing exhibition of works by artist, Anne McDonnell.
‘Nourish’ is a new solo exhibition by Ms McDonnell who is GOMA’s studio artist and a spokesperson for the gallery told Waterford News & Star the works are based on how we navigate the highs and lows through various relationships, throughout our lives.
“From first encounters to lasting bonds, mother, friend... self... these pieces strive to make these emotions and connections tangible through mark making in an effort to understand and record them,” said the spokesperson.
Through printmaking, Ms McDonnell worked on plates in an intuitive manner, painting bitumen directly onto them and then each plate presenting a compilation of marks aimed at evoking those emotions.
As an artist, Ms McDonnell is curious about the way we encounter each other, how can care turn to control and the fine lines between love and lust?
The figures in her work helps her to explore themes of tension conflict and self-doubt and they are almost symbol-like in their simplicity while their uncomplicated nature help reinforce their idea.
“Many of the pieces are layered, representing us, where we are, where we came from, the people we connect with,” said the spokesperson.
“Intuitively the themes ‘Nourish’, and nurture introduce themselves, balm to salve any hurt,” she added.
The collection was curated by Jenna Whelan. The spokesperson said that on behalf of GOMA, gratitude was expressed to Director & Curator Jenna Whelan, Design Print House, Clare Scott, Jena Wade, Robert Scanlon, Nora Boland, Seamus O’Brien, Rhys Wallace, Paul Goulding, Stephen Pim, GOMAs board of Directors, funders and the public for their ongoing support.
‘Nourish’ will remain on view to the public until January 5.
