HEARTLANDS, BANK OF IRELAND, ROSCOMMON 1993/ IRISH LIFE EXHIBITION CENTER, DUBLIN, 1994/MIDLANDS ARTS RESOURCE CENTER, MULLINGAR, 1994 HEARTLANDS originates from the experience of the artist working and living in the heart of Ireland. Six artists responded to the chosen theme of Heartlands in a variety of ways. It signaled a sea-change in the provision of art in the midlands. At the time, the midlands appeared on maps of professional arts provision as a 'black-hole'. An area low in artistic activity. Since the emergence of WAR in 1991, the County of Roscommon proved an exemplar in how this activity has mushroomed.
HEARTLANDS toured around Ireland exhibiting in Roscommon 1993, Dublin 1994 and Mullingar 1994. Artist included: Frances Crowe, Joe Cunniffe, Honor Fitzgerald, Anne Rigney, Dympna Molloy and Noel Molloy.
Bank of Ireland Roscommon 1993 opened by Ciarán Walsh Education Officer Irish Arts Council Ciarán is currently a freelance curator, educator and film maker. Established in 2010, www.curator.ie
Irish Life Exhibition Center Dublin 1994 opened by Adrian Munnelly Director of the Irish Arts Council 1983-1996 Adrian is currently in the private sector, Carr Communications.
Midland Arts Resource Center, 1994 Opened by Emer Leavy Roscommon Arts Office. Emer is currently living in Scotland
Adrian Munnelly Director Irish Arts Council
opening speech