An exhibition currently running in Athlone Library, entitled "Can you hear what I see?" features 10 paintings by Brendan Duffy and 10 poems in response by local Athlone poet Jackie Gorman.
Brendan and Jackie met for the first time in 2014, as part of Longford Arts Office’s ‘Respond’ project, in which 10 writers penned a response to the work of 10 local artists. Jean Healy, art programme director at St Christopher’s Services, Longford, explained that Brendan and Jackie clicked the first time they met. “It’s brilliant and it’s been a great experience. The Respond project was just a lucky dip and it was really a perfect match.”
Explaining the reason behind the title of the exhibition and publication, Jackie, who has written for publications including Wordlegs, Headspace, Elephant Journal and The Irish Times, stated: “We were trying to come up with a title that could convey the work and the process, and I feel the title ‘Can you hear what I see?’ does that.” According to Jackie, who was a recipient of a Golden Pen Award this year, the title speaks to the process that she has had with Brendan, in terms of art and poetry and the way in which paintings and poetry can speak.
The exhibition recently moved to Athlone Library, where the launch was undertaken by artist and art therapist Dymphna Bonfield. The accompanying publication is on sale for €5, with proceeds going to St Christopher’s Services.
