Dublin-born Brian Bourke lives and works in Connemara. He is recognised for observational works that tackle a range of subjects. In Agenbite of Inwit, Bourke presents existing work alongside previously unseen pieces.
Too often artistic careers are subject to the disciplining nature of linear time, organised in ‘periods’ or perhaps for their historical contexts, disguising connections and interrelations between works from the viewer. Freed from temporal and material categorisation, in this exhibition Bourke says: ‘A work done thirty years ago might be placed alongside something made last year. They are often interrelated but not necessarily of the same period. I do not wish to have an exhibition with the purpose of showing progress or decay in the passing of time.’
Produced in collaboration with Dr Lucy Elvis and Dr Jane Conway, University of Galway, with support from the University of Galway Visual Arts Programme 2024.
Project RARE is supported by the University of Galway.
Talk #1: Art, Music and Words - Creative Connections: Reflections on the work of Brian Bourke.
Galway-based composer Jane O’Leary will consider the art works on display in Brian Bourke’s exhibition, Agenbite of Inwit and Out of the Head, exploring resonances in music and literature. This illustrated talk will include some of her own compositions and will connect with the words of Beckett, Joyce, and others. Artists Brian Bourke and Jay Murphy will join the conversation.
Jane O’Leary has created music for a wide range of performers, from solo instrumentalists to symphony orchestra, with recordings, broadcasts and performances worldwide. She established Ireland’s first contemporary music ensemble, Concorde, in 1976 and as pianist and director has presented new music widely across the world. Later this month her piano music will be performed in Bochum, Germany as part of Zeitgeist Irland 2024, while works featuring the clarinet will be premiered in Dublin at the annual festival of the International Clarinet Association.
Date & Time: 18th July, 1pm
Venue: O’Donoghue Centre
Talk #2: Off the Head
Explore highlights from six decades of Brian Bourke's artistic practice through a newly recorded interview series between the artist and Shane O'Donoghue. Join a special evening of conversation between the artist, the documentary maker and curator Rosemarie Noone, director of Claremorris Gallery.
Shane O'Donoghue is a graphic designer and curator from Moycullen with experience in both commercial and festival sectors. His focus is on accessible visual arts education through exhibitions and talks. He has previously co-produced shows on Paul Rand & Dieter Rams, and was the visual-director and co-founder of the Irish Surf Film Festival. Rosemarie Noone is the owner and director of Claremorris Gallery with vast experience in visual arts in both private and non-profit sectors, having worked in museums and galleries in Ireland and the USA.
Date & Time: 23rd July, 6pm
Venue: O’Donoghue Centre Main Auditorium