SEMAPHORE
Tom Cookson + Sarah Carroll
Exhibition
Date: Friday 27 September - Sunday, 6 October 2024
Time: 11:00 - 17:00
Location: The Shed, Middle Pier, Galway Harbour
Our project explores the built phenomenon of Irish signal towers and their position within the wider tradition of optical maritime communication. We are interested in the physical act of signalling to distant points and the distinctly Irish application of this technology. In response to a much feared French invasion in the early 1800s, a constellation of 81 signal towers were constructed along the periphery of the island. Signalling was achieved by means of flags and balls, relaying messages to and from inland locations and to ships at sea.
Our project culminates in an architectural installation within the maritime environment of Galway Docks. We will explore the idea of semaphore through a series of physical objects, unearthing and communicating the cultural history of signalling through words, artefacts and drawings.
Corresponding events will be found via the link in our Instagram bio over the coming weeks featuring an Artists Talk on Saturday 05th October 3.00pm.