Talisman Making Workshop
Talismans are ritually prepared symbolic objects originating in some of the earliest human cultures. They are personal portable objects that represent deeply held beliefs, milestones, memories, and protections. Join artist Joanna Kidney to make talisman objects imbued with connection and devotion. The objects may take the form of small sculptures, a pendant, a pocket charm, a head piece or any other form that unfolds. Using natural or repurposed materials of significance to each person, each talisman will be unique to its maker.
Bring 4-5 tenderly selected, small natural or man made objects of significance. Natural objects such as a stone, leaf, branch, flower, seed, seaweed, feather or bone. Human made objects couldbe any small object of significance to you, perhaps connected to someone you love or someone who has passed. Also bring along any repurposed materials that could become part of a talisman object eg thread, twine, fabric or papers of significance. Joanna will have a supply of materials but it’s preferable if you select the objects of significance you wish to work out from. We will mark,paint, stick, wrap, stitch and/or bind the objects and materials to make the talismans.
This workshop follows the screening of Joanna Kidney’s new film ‘The Future has an AncientHeart’ 11-12.30pm at the Courthouse (include link). The project is funded by The Arts Council andsupported by Wicklow County Arts Office through the annual Strategic Project Award Scheme. It is a collaboration with cinematographer Oisín Mc Farland Smith; film artist Alan Lambert andsound artist Anthony Kelly.
Joanna Kidney’s multidisciplinary practice considers what it means to be a part of something much bigger than ourselves. Emerging from an animist worldview, it exploresdeep ecology, indigenous knowledge, wonder and care. Throughout her work with drawing, paint, space and moving image, the act of making and process are central. In addition to exhibitions in the USA, UK, France and Germany, Joanna has had Solo Exhibitions in the RHA, Dublin; The LAB, Dublin; Fenderesky Gallery, Belfast; Uillinn and Galway Arts Centre. She is the recipient of a Cooper Foundation Grant (USA); Arts Council of Ireland funding, a DIT Award of Excellence and an RHA Studio Award. Her practiceencompasses collaboration and working with artists collectives. She is the co-curator of Wicklow Artists Salon with writer Philip St John. Her work is held in Irish and International Public and Private Collections.