Prominent Irish sculptor Catherine Green, originally from Ballinasloe, has created an atmospheric exhibition on the quiet but important presence of female figures in Irish history, and how their influence continued after them.
ABSENCE|PRESENCE is inspired by St Brigid and a remarkable group of women who lived and worked in religious communities between the sixth and sixteenth centuries, the exhibition reflects on creativity, care and quiet influence.
This exhibition was created for St. Brigid’s Day and will run at the Europa Gallery on Chatham Street, Dublin, until March 13.
Figures such as Julian of Norwich, Hildegard of Bingen and Renaissance painter Plautilla Nelli are woven into the story — women whose lives combined spirituality with healing, music, writing and art.
At the centre of the exhibition is the cloak, a recurring sculptural form that feels both protective and open.
Rather than depicting faces or figures, Greene uses shape, texture and scale to create works that are deeply atmospheric. Through this symbolic gesture, the exhibition honours the profound, lasting influence of these women.
Catherine’s exhibition continues Mon-Fri 9.30-5pm and Sat/Sun 12-6pm until March 13, 2026.
