Unapproved Road II: Catalyst; Contemporary Art and War

Willie Doherty (Photographer)

Research output: Non-textual formExhibition

Abstract

Group Exhibition
at the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester which exhibited Willie Dohertyʼs Unapproved Road II, 1995, Cibachrome print mounted on aluminium.

Throughout his career Willie Doherty has explored the portrayal of his native Northern Ireland in the media and in broader visual culture. In doing this he also raises questions about the manipulative power of photography. Unapproved Road shows a makeshift roadblock, seemingly harmless at first glance. But once we know that this a border road in rural Northern Ireland, the scene takes on a
broader, darker significance. The photograph has a staged quality, calling into question our perception of the image. The position of the cement blocks
suggests an impact, perhaps an indication of a violent past event. They are also interventions in the landscape, blocking the route and reminding us of the significance of land and territory in the conflict in Northern Ireland.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished (in print/issue) - 12 Oct 2013
Event"Catalyst; Contemporary Art and War" , The Imperial War Museum North, Manchester - The Imperial War Museum North, Manchester, United Kingdom
Duration: 12 Oct 201323 Feb 2014
https://imperialwarmuseum.wordpress.com/2013/10/20/catalyst-contemporary-art-and-war-iwm-norths-war-art-exhibition/

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Unapproved Road II: Catalyst; Contemporary Art and War'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this