The inspiration behind artist Siobhán McDonald’s new exhibition at the Cross Gallery on Dublin’s Francis Street was a recent trip to the Caribbean island of Montserrat. The island, known as the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean”, is home to the famous Soufrière Hills Volcano. After lying dormant since prehistoric times, the volcano began erupting in July 1995.
McDonald (left), detailed the aftermath in her sketchbooks – abstract images that record the natural formation of roots, waterways and volcanos. “Everywhere the sense of an environmental catastrophe exists against a backdrop of lush green vegetation. There is a compelling sense of devastation, of homes and communities being engulfed by the vast lava flow,” she says. “Time spent in the observatory with the scientists opened up new avenues to my work.”
Siobhán McDonald, the Cross Gallery, Francis Street. Until May 30th