Dara McGrath (b. 1970) Hidden Histories

Dara McGrath’s series of 5 Hidden Histories photographic portraits capture the individual sitters in similar moments of repose. The
artist positions the subjects staring off to the left, their distinctive personal presence set against a plain maroon backdrop, as they each contemplate the discussions shared as part of the Glucksman’s Hidden Histories project which marked 100 years of women’s right to vote in Ireland. The group reflected on their own experiences, with wider contextual input from UCC academics, to consider the advances in women’s rights during their lifetime and the role women have played in shaping Cork city.

In taking the portraits, Dara McGrath drew inspiration from the iconic Barack Obama ‘Hope’ poster designed by artist Shepard Fairey, where the thenpresidential candidate was depicted head tilted looking ahead to further progress. In their studio-like setting, the artist is also referencing the style of portraits that were popular in the many photographic ateliers that lined Cork city’s main streets in the early twentieth century.

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