The point of departure for this exhibition was Mandy O’Neill’s recent practice-based PhD, where she examined the social and material implications of housing development and dereliction in the Dublin inner suburb of Cabra. Her research questioned the ideological shifts in housing policy since the mid 20th century in Ireland which have resulted in a move from housing as public good to housing as commodity, with emphasis on the impact of planning. In a broader context O’Neill’s practice is concerned with the politics of space and place, and the power relations which shape our built environment.
For the exhibition FORMWORK at Ballina Art Centre, O’Neill presents a series of artworks which draw on aspects of her PhD research, while also responding to a particular site of development and dereliction in Dublin’s North inner city. The term formwork refers to a support system of grids, panels, props and beams used in building. O’Neill has extensively photographed formwork and shoring structures across the city and suburbs, using these photographs as references for the creation of sculptural installations. Metaphorically the term formwork describes the processes of making and construction, and the concepts of social and material support structure’s in Mandy’s practice.
This site-specific installation presents various forms – architectural, sculptural, print-based, photographic, textual and aural, with a focus on spatial and material experience.
Mandy O’Neill uses expanded photography practice in an instinctual and responsive manner, as a way to understand, process and contain the material and social environments in which we live. She is especially interested in the political and social contexts of our built environment – from schools and community venues, to housing and institutional buildings. Her multi-layered methodology begins with the act of walking and photographing, where she identifies sites of interest. Geo-historical research and social engagement with communities reveals the lived experiences of these sites, often unearthing their socio-political and ideological underpinnings. Material outcomes include photographs, print, installation, sculpture, sound and text works.
Location: Ballina Arts Centre, Barrett St,, Carrowcushlaun West, Ballina, Co. Mayo
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