By Róise Collins
A PROJECT celebrating the rare beauty of red hair will take place in the Donegal Gaeltacht in the coming weeks. The quirky initiative is the brainchild of Gortahork-based visual artist Maria Gasol.
A native of Spain, Maria’s interest in red hair began with its rarity in her home country.
“In fact, I have often painted my subjects as redheads. I’ve since found out that many artists throughout history did find red hair as alluring as I do,” Maria said.
The project, RUA, which is supported by Ealáin na Gaeltachta and the local Irish Language Planning Office, promises to be an exciting, multifaceted exploration of red hair.
WINTER BLUES by visual artist Maria Gasol.
However, it is not just about celebrating red hair, but about exploring its complex history.
“I have learnt that people haven’t always been proud of being ginger, that in the past there has been embarrassment, self-loathing and teasing involved. And when you dig into history, red hair has indeed been the cause of admiration, fear, mockery.
“It’s only a hair colour yet it’s so full of meaning and folklore,” Maria added.
The first event is a series of photoshoots across community centres in Gaoth Dobhair and Falcarragh.
Red-heads of all shades and ages are encouraged to participate in the quick, photo booth-style photoshoots. The first event will take place at Ionad Naomh Pádraig in Dobhar on Saturday, March 24, between 2pm and 4pm.
The second event will be held at Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair on Saturday, April 5, followed by an event at Garradh Cholmcille, Falcarragh on Saturday, May 10.
Each headshot taken will be developed and woven together to create a special redhead mosaic. Those who participate will also be entered into a draw to win a personalised portrait by Maria Gasol.
OLD WALLS NEW SECRETS by Maria Gasol. A native of Spain, Maria’s interest in red hair began with its rarity in her home country.
As part of the initiative, several talented Gaeltacht-based artists have been invited to create new works inspired by the theme of RUA in their own mediums and styles. These artists include Kim Sharkey, Maria Coleman, Leonie Ferry, and Sean Fitzgerald.
Additionally, a storytelling event by local actor Ciarán Ó Gallachóir will take place at Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair on May 25. It will feature fascinating and fun facts about red hair, including history, geography, science, myth, folklore, and famous redheads. This will be followed by an art workshop for children.
An online callout will run simultaneously, inviting people to submit short pieces of writing about their experiences of being a redhead. These can be memories, feelings, or anecdotes. They will be curated and displayed – anonymously or with attribution – both online and at the exhibition.
The events will culminate in an exhibition which is planned to take place in Ionad Naomh Pádraig in October.
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