Exhibits explore life in Northern Ireland, costume design

Contemporary life in Northern Ireland and a 20-year retrospective of costume design are the subject of two exhibits opening at the Wake Forest University Fine Arts Gallery on Aug. 25.

“Troubled,” a photography, film and video exhibit, brings together images of contemporary Northern Ireland and explores the 30 years of conflict between Catholics and Protestants.

An opening reception will be held at 4 p.m. on Sept. 2 in the gallery. Admission to the opening and gallery is free. The exhibits will run until Sept. 26.

Photographers featured in the exhibit are John Duncan, a native of Northern Ireland and editor of the Source, Ireland’s photographic review magazine; Mary McIntyre and Moria McIver, both art instructors at the University of Ulster in Belfast; Paul Seawright, a Belfast native and art instructor in Wales; Nigel Rolfe, a native of Northern Ireland working as an artist in England; Victor Sloan, an artist in Northern Ireland; and English artist Caroline Molloy.

Documentary films featured in the exhibit include “The Trouble with Art,” which explores the role of visual artists in Northern Ireland, and “Women’s Work,” a look at women’s involvement in Northern Irish politics. The exhibit’s narrative films include “Dance Lexie Dance,” “Bogwoman” and “Cycle of Violence.”

Displayed in the upstairs gallery will be a 20-year retrospective of Mary Wayne-Thomas’ work with Wake Forest’s theatre department. The exhibit will feature renderings, models and photographs of theatrical sets and costume designs. Wayne-Thomas is an assistant professor of theatre.

Wake Forest University Fine Arts Gallery is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. weekends. Call 336-758-5585 for more information and a complete screening schedule of films featured in “Troubled.”

Categories: Arts & Culture, Events