Patrick Hough's 2021 film The Black River of Herself features in the group exhibition BogSkin at Esker Arts in Ireland.
In Hough's film, a female bog body is uncovered during a dig. Unable to move but fully able to speak, she shares a monologue with the archaeologist tasked with recovering her. Her story shifts from personal fate to a premonition of impending environmental tragedy, sensing subtle changes in the air. The film transforms the race to save the body into an allegory for the planet's future, punctuated by panoramic views of a timeless Irish landscape. The film's heart lies in the dramatic interplay between the two characters, with beautifully scripted, affecting exchanges that leave a lasting impact.
The bog has always occupied a central role in Irish life, in our folklore, history and home life. We are delighted to present BogSkin, a major exhibition examining the relationship of art to the boglands over the past 50 years.
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Created in collaboration with Film and Video Umbrella. Produced by Tracy Bass. Supported by the Arts Council of Ireland, Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art, Sunderland and Arts Council England.