Students
Dianne Curtin / Eiren
Eiren explores the connections between climate shock and gender-based violence, and had its origins in the findings of the Sexual Violence Survey conducted in Ireland in 2022. This research motivated a series of mapping practices that aimed to detail the distances and travel connections between various West Cork islands and towns to access support at the Rape Crisis Centre in Cork City. In addition, current research shows how climate-related weather events, natural disasters, forest fires, and conflict all significantly impact gender-based violence. Recently, the UN Refugee Agency reported Gender-based violence as a top protection concern for women who are displaced from areas where climate and environment-related incidents have taken place. The COVID-19 pandemic saw figures for domestic violence rise on a global scale.
Eiren blends social engagement, sculptural form and audiovisual processes to explore the difficult social and political issue of gender-based violence. It is made using virtual reality technology, spoken word and wearable sculpture. Utilising the form of a cape with weighted mantle. it represents the ancient traditional garment for women, once worn to protect against weather and to shield the female form in a puritanical way.
Email: diannecurtin1@gmail.com
Photo: Emma Jervis
