Exhibition explores Irish women in history

May 30, 2016 - 09:00

Stormy Petrel, an image and sound exhibition about Irish history, is being held in Hà Nội.

Image&sound exhibit: Visitors look at photos displayed at the exhibition Stormy Petrel. VNS Photo Truong Vi
Viet Nam News

HÀ NỘI — Stormy Petrel, an image and sound exhibition about Irish history, is being held in Hà Nội.

Stormy Petrel explores the forgotten history of a group of revolutionary women couriers operating in Ireland 100 years ago.

Stormy Petrel is a sound, light and image collaboration developed by Irish artists Orla Ryan, Alanna O’Kelly and Brian Hand. It is being curated by CUC Gallery Director Phạm Phương Cúc.

The exhibition begins with the symbolism of the Stormy Petrel, the world’s smallest seabird and a metaphor for change, whose appearance announces an approaching storm.

This year marks the centenary of Ireland’s 1916 Easter Rising, a seismic moment on Ireland’s path to independence.

“For many years, the role of women in the rising was overlooked,” Ireland’s Ambassador Cait Moran said.

“The 100-year commemoration has righted this by recognising the powerful role played by Irish women during this period,” added Moran.

“In 1916, the Stormy Petrel bird was an international symbol of revolution and anti-colonial sentiment. This exhibition looks at the role of women couriers who provided a ‘human telegraph’ during the rebellion,” she said.

This year is significant for Việt Nam and Ireland, as both countries mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between them. The exhibition is one of many cultural events celebrating this anniversary.

“We hope the exhibition will showcase contemporary Irish and visual arts in Việt Nam, while prompting a conversation about the role of women in revolution, history and political life, whether in Việt Nam or Ireland,” said Moran.

The exhibition will run until June 28 at the Vietnamese Women’s Museum located at 36 Lý Thường Kiệt Street, Hà Nội. — VNS

 

 

 

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