Aveen Mc Kernan 

My practice encompass themes rooted in Irish culture and environment. Through sculptural installations, I explore Ireland's unique landscapes, delving into topics such as the tension between tradition and sustainability, the rural-urban divide, and the historical significance of Irish boglands. Forging site-specific materials from my family's bog in Co. Clare, the installation embodies the lifestyle my grandmother reminisces about, now fading away. The encasement suggests the preservation of our boglands, urging observers to admire without disturbance. The embankment confronts us with the result of altering our boglands through the tradition of turf cutting. The accompanying audio serves as a catalyst for reflection, juxtaposing the serenity of birdsong with the harsh realities of this lifestyle's challenges. Through this lens, we grasp the necessity for progress while acknowledging the toll on both humans and the environment. Unlike typical encasements seen after irreparable damage, this offers an opportunity for introspection and understanding before irreversible change occurs.