Crawford Art Gallery is delighted to host a third Seen – Unseen event in 2022 on 26 August at 2.30pm
Seen – Unseen is a unique socially engaged art project created in 2014 by Artist Clare Mc Laughlin exploring access to art for the visually impaired person (VIP) in gallery spaces and elsewhere.
In the upcoming Seen – Unseen session in the Crawford Art Gallery, Clare will be exploring some works from the exhibition Meat and Potatoes including Abigail O'Brien, Deirdre O'Mahony and Maria McKinney.
Throughout the Covid 19 pandemic lockdowns Clare developed online Seen – Unseen gallery visits via the zoom platform with the aid of specially designed tactile packs. These are posted to participants, who are now joining in from three continents to the gallery visits online.
During the Seen – Unseen visually impaired gallery visits, participants take time to explore in detail any one particular artwork. The artwork is explored from a tactile perspective to allow a connection to what is portrayed, the art materials used, and the art process engaged by the artist.
While the verbal description is an important part of the visit, the ability to make a tactile connection with the artwork and ultimately the artist is an experience that lasts a lot longer than the visit. Bringing the artworks closer to the visitor helps in the understanding of not alone the artist’s practice but also of the political and social conditions prevailing when an artwork was made. The relaxed and convivial sessions encourage participations from the attendees.
These events are always friendly, fun and free of charge. No previous knowledge or particular art experience is necessary. If you would like to join us for the session please contact Clare McLaughlin to book a place at clare@seenunseen.ie
For more information and full details of the 2022 schedule of Seen - Unseen events please visit Clare's website https://artistclaremclaughlin.org/.
Clare Mc Laughlin is an artist based in Bandon. She has a number of ongoing art projects including Seen – Unseen, SÚIL, Bird Feast, Blackberry Jam and Message in a Bottle.