Galway City Council, Galway Public Libraries, and Galway City Museum working together are proud to present "Reflections," a programme commemorating the remarkable Irish women of 1923 as part of the Decade of Centenaries 2012 - 2023 initiative, supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports, and Media. This multifaceted project, in development since August 2023, is a heartfelt tribute to the women who shaped Irish history during a pivotal era. It has offered a platform for in-depth discussions, artist residencies, and creative exploration of their lives and contributions. Artists in residence Áine Philips, Emily Cullen and Tracy Bruen.
"Reflections" is not just a historical tribute, but a creative interpretation of the significant contributions made by women during that era. It stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and creativity of Irish women in the past and present.
Programme
‘Reflections Talk’ - The Mick Lally Theatre will host presentations and discussions featuring scholars and experts Mary Clancy, Thérèse McIntyre, and Dr. Angela Griffith on November 28, 12 - 2.30 pm. These discussions will explore the lives of Irish women in 1923, covering various dimensions, including cultural, social, and political, aspects, offering an understanding of the historical context.
Artistic Collaborations: Galway-based artists Áine Philips, Tracy Bruen, and Emily Cullen have immersed themselves in the history and stories of Irish women from 1923. They have worked with archival materials, historical artifacts and collaborated with communities to co-create original works. These artists have established three new collectives and groups to celebrate and memorialize the contributions of women in Irish history.
‘Reflections Performance’: a performance of Visual Art, Literature, and Music, December 7, 7 pm – 8.30 pm at St Nicholas Collegiate Church will showcase the Dun Emer Eastside Collective's visually stunning banners led by visual artist Áine Philips. These banners celebrate and remember the women of 1923 and 100 years of Irish women's achievements. They will be paraded from Shop Street to Saint Nicholas's Collegiate Church and serve as a backdrop for musical and spoken word performances.
Comhrá na mBan Centenary Westside Writers Group: led by writer Emily Cullen, this diverse group will present boldly imaginative poems in a vibrant performance, bridging a fluid conversation across time between Irish women of 1923 and the contemporary moment.
The Women's Centenary Choir Galway City: led by musician and singer-songwriter Tracy Bruen, this multicultural and multigenerational women's choir will sing songs honoring the women of the past, present, and future reflecting the diversity and strength of the women of Galway City in 2023.
This programme of events, reflecting the creative work of women in 2023, pays homage to our past and serves as a catalyst for contemporary discussions and actions relating to gender equality and women's rights.
Events are free, no booking is required.
