Opening Reception Friday 6 June, 6 – 9pm • In conjunction with Carlow Arts Festival 2014 • Curated by Enrique Juncosa

Ten years ago Joana Vasconcelos initiated a series of works inspired by the Valkyries. These female characters of Norse mythology, in charge of shaping the destiny of men by selecting the bravest and most valiant warriors killed in battle, fly over the battlefields riding on winged horses, recruiting the future warriors of Odin.

Suspended from the ceiling, Valquíria Enxoval, an enormous, spectacular and majestic textile sculpture seems to hover over the gallery prospecting noble matter for divine tasks. This exuberant work, rich in texture, colour and form, is an ambitious statement about the power of desire, hedonism and play.

Joana Vasconcelos collaborated with local artisans of Nisa—drawn-thread work, felt appliqués, bobbin lace, tatting, chain-stitching and embroidered shawls form this magnus—to create a festive work that pays tribute to women.

The international career of Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos (Paris, 1971) includes solo shows in the Château de Versailles (2012), the Palacio Nacional de Ajuda in Lisbon (2013), the Gucci Museum in Florence (2013). She created the Trafaia Praia for the Portuguese Pavilion in last year’s Venice Biennale.

This exhibition is kindly sponsored by Quinta do Lago Hotel in Portugal’s Algarve. It has also received support from the Portuguese Embassy in Ireland.