Artist Statement for ‘Roots’ Exhibition in Dublin Castle, Dublin
In the quiet stillness of a Sunday morning, shaving my father’s face became an act of profound love and care. His fragile skin, marked by the ravages of illness, stood as a reminder of time’s relentless passage. As I wrapped him in towels and prepared the warm water, the mundane task of shaving evolved into a sacred ritual. Each movement was deliberate, filled with unspoken words and the weight of an impending farewell. The scent of soap mingled with memories of better days, as I approached the task with a blend of reverence and sorrow. My need to preserve his dignity eclipsed the fear of causing him pain, as I tried to restore a sense of normalcy to his fading existence.
Inspired by Jane Clarke’s evocative imagery in "The Rod," this body of work reflects the beauty found in moments of vulnerability and care. My father’s once-strong frame, now diminished by illness, symbolizes the unstoppable decline. The memory of that morning lingers, capturing the grace in simple acts of love and the heartbreaking beauty of saying goodbye.
Using a diverse range of techniques such as screen printing, machine embroidery, reverse appliqué, and hand stitching, I weave together the essence of home, a sense of place, with personal experiences and a touch of emotion. I hope to connect with viewers on a visceral level, touching upon the essence of our shared humanity.
Pauline Kiernan
Art Studio Finished!
We run several textile workshops per week, if you are interested in Free motion machine embroidery, Silk screen printing or dressmaking and would like to know more please contact Pauline 0872059961 or check out Instagram or Facebook.
