The images in these monotypes evolved from a series of paintings which refer to the “Curragh” (Gaelic). The Curragh is a small boat whose frame is constructed of wickerwork or wooden laths that are then covered in canvas or skin and sealed with tar, the boat is still used today. Tradition has it that St. Brendan used them in the 6th Century when he sailed from Ireland to Newfoundland.

Curraghs are light and swift making them easy to launch in rough tide and negotiate on rocky shorelines, the oars are virtually blade-less which helps in navigating heavy waves and surf.

They are used for transporting people animals and goods to the islands off the coast of Ireland. When carried on land, usually by three people, the boat is hoisted upside down and held at shoulder level covering the head; this image evokes a mythical creature with six legs topped off by a long sharp beak-like pitch black form.

The Curragh was first seen on film in the classic documentary “Man of Aran”, made in 1934 by the pioneering documentary filmmaking, Robert Flaherty.