Grad X

Paula Quirke

A search for how to land

A search for how to land takes its inspiration from the link between somatic movement and politics.

In the face of climate crisis and geopolitical instability the present can appear overwhelming and the future hopeless. Islands are often described in ways suggesting they are remote and isolated. Living on Sherkin Island has taught me that islands are not homogenous and are places of deep connection and resilience. The connection between how we experience the world and how we embody it informs movement practices in this work. In times of crises such practices have the potential to enhance social engagement.

This work is based on a series of walks and movement practices (2023-2024) centred around the headland marker on Sherkin Island and an introduction to practices at the corresponding structure on Cape Clear Island. Visualising this connection emphasises the potential of islands to teach on resilience and community building.