Photographic Exhibition ‘Bealtaine’ by Shane Hynan

June 2022

Launch Thursday 2^nd June 7pm at Kildare Library

Shane Hynan is a visual artist and photographer based in Kildare. In 2019 he completed an MFA in Photography at Ulster University following a career change from structural engineering. He currently works full time developing his visual arts practice.

‘Bealtaine’ is a mini-series within a larger body of work entitled ‘Beneath | Beofhód’. 

An outstanding exhibition, sharing work from both series will be on display in Kildare Town Library for the month of June. Themes explored include time, spirituality, change and ritual.

"Bealtaine has many meanings in modern and Celtic Ireland. It derives from the old Gaelic words ‘Bel taine’ which translate as ‘bright fire’. It also corresponds to the Celtic festival of ‘La Bealtaine’, celebrating the beginning of Summer.

In May 2020 there were a number of major bog fires in north Kildare. While photographing them, I often found myself lingering in the smoke and charred landscape. I began to feel an echo from an older time and wondered if it was the rituals of our ancestors persisting or possibly a warning for us to care more for our environment." - Shane Hynan

Please book your ticket as places are limited