Echoes of Sorrow: A Tribute to Black '47 at the Irish Workhouse Centre 🖼️🕊️

Hello, everyone! 🙂

For the past two weeks, I've had the privilege of interning at the Irish Workhouse Centre, an institution with a profound historical legacy. Once an operational workhouse in Ireland during the 19th and early 20th centuries, it now stands transformed into a museum and art center in Portumna. The ongoing restoration efforts aim to revive its various blocks and rooms.

During my internship, I was tasked, aside from my regular duties, with conceptualizing a project tied to Black '47, a poignant chapter in Ireland's history marked by severe famine. After much contemplation, I embarked on a painting that captures the essence of an orphan's life during those harrowing times. This artwork, my humble contribution, will be donated to the Workhouse Centre and become a lasting part of its exhibits.

But that's not all—I have an additional surprise. In an effort to make the museum's current exhibitions more accessible, I've spent the last two weeks translating detailed descriptions into Polish. Beth, a wonderful collaborator, has helped create artwork for each description. Moreover, in the room dedicated to Paweł Strzelecki, you'll have the opportunity to hear my voice narrating his inspiring story—a figure we can all learn from.

I extend a sincere invitation to visit this remarkable place, where the people are extraordinary, and the atmosphere is truly evocative.

This painting, created on primed canvas and painted with acrylics, carries with it the echoes of a sorrowful yet resilient past. 🖼️🕊️