Bafushia is an exhibition of contemporary artists who share Traveller heritage.

Artists include Chloe McDonagh, Dave McDonagh, Francis McCarthy, Leanne McDonagh and William Cauley.

The word ‘Bafushia’ was discovered written in a sketchbook by Jack Butler Yeats above his image ‘Telling the Cards’ (1898).  Through collective interpretation with Traveller participants the word was translated as possibly a term for divining the future, ‘telling forward’, and for seeking out and imagining what lies ahead. This speculative process of movement is important where these artists who share heritage in the Travelling community present unique creative and critical reflections on the subjects explored in their work. Irish Travellers, a minority ethnic group, have a long-shared history, traditions, language, culture and customs. Traveller culture is based on a nomadic tradition and sets Travellers apart from the majority sedentary population. While Travellers experience racism, discrimination, marginalisation and exclusion this exhibition demonstrates the resilience in the community, its strong creative traditions and an ability to look forward in strength and hope. Bafushia was originally exhibited at The Model Sligo (July – September 2024).  Hugh Lane Gallery is delighted to host this exhibition which gives insight into the lived experience of Irish Travellers through a Traveller lens.  Hugh Lane Gallery has also supported a series of collaborative workshops with Traveller participants who have selected a number of artworks from the Hugh Lane collection that will be included in the display in gallery 6.

Bafushia was originally devised as part of the Hereditas Project, a collaborative arts project led by artist Séamus Nolan in collaboration with Sligo Traveller Support Group, CAIRDE Sligo Arts Festival and funded by The Arts Council of Ireland’s Art: 2023 Centenary programme.   Bafushia at the Hugh Lane is organised in collaboration with artist Séamus Nolan and Pavee Point Traveller & Roma Centre.