Tina Claffey, photographic artist and resident of Birr, Co Offaly, launches her current exhibition in the Atrium space of the Áras and Chontae, Mullingar.
Her exhibition Seoda -Treasure of the Wetlands showcases Tina’s observations of the flora and fauna of the preserved raised bogs and wet woodlands of the Midlands. Seoda is the Gaelic word for treasure.
Regarding her observations during the photography process Tina says: “It amazes me how, in this environment in particular, this natural wilderness, from the largest to the smallest living bug, plant and mammal has adapted its behaviour and sometimes physical characteristics to survive.” The array of unique and endemic wild flowers, plants, sedges, mosses, gorse, and myriads of wildlife have adapted to this environment, and the change of season brings with it a kaleidoscope of colour, light, and new life.
Tina is a graduate of photography from the Crawford College of Art and Design in Cork. She returned to Ireland in 2009 having lived and worked in Botswana, Southern Africa, for almost nine years. Her love for the African and the Irish natural world has resulted in an ongoing photographic documentation of these environments and their inhabitants, from Tina’s own unique perspective.
“My images are the result of many patient hours of observation, seeking new perspectives. Getting as close as possible to a subject, I create an image that is almost abstract, yet familiar. In my direct connection to nature through my camera lens, I focus on the soul and beauty which is so often passed by, unseen. Through my way of seeing, I love to bring an emotional impact to the viewer, with detail and authenticity.”
Tina has exhibited in solo and group shows throughout Ireland, Botswana, and more recently two of her images were chosen and digitally projected as part of the See | Me community’s The Story of the Creative exhibition for emerging artists in Long Island City, Queens, New York City, in July and August of 2013.
Tina’s show, Seoda - Treasure Under Foot, was featured on TG4’s Imeall arts programme, which aired in November 2013. Her current show Seoda - Treasure of the Wetlands features additional images from the wet woodlands of the bogs, and its inhabitants.
Tina will be launching her show Seoda - Treasure of the Wetlands in the Atrium space of the Áras an Chontae, Mullingar tonight, Thursday March 19 at 6pm and all are welcome to attend.
