Catrin spent 5 weeks during July-August 2009 at Taigh Chearsabhagh, Lochmaddy on the island of North Uist. She had been selected to be part of the Tir residency project - the project will bring artists and galleries from Wales, Ireland and Scotland together. In time a touring exhibition will be arranged for all the project artists - this exhibition will visit: Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw Gallery, Llanbedrog - November and December 2010; Celtic Connections, Glasgow - February 2011; Sabhal Mor Ostaig, Skye; Taigh Chearsabhagh, North Uist; City Hall, Galway; Aras Eanna, Inis Oirr; Ionad Culturtha, Co. Cork; Ionad an Bhlascaoid, Co. Kerry; Void Gallery, Derry; MOMA Cymru Wales, Machynlleth; Oriel Llangrannog.
Tir Residency Report - Although I was only on the island for a short period, I developed a warm relationship with Morag and Norman - both unique characters. The boats and aprons are a tribute to them. By chatting to the islanders, I was inspired by their history and background and relished the chance to listen to their folk songs - intense and sad funeral psalms and lively and happy wedding songs.
Statement - From one Celtic seaboard to another, the culture and the language are major influences on my work.
Black and white paintings - Whilst travelling around North Uist, I stopped here and there to draw in a small sketchbook - sometimes making sketches on large pieces of paper. The weather was glorious one minute and pouring with rain the next.
Loch nam Madadh - An interesting village. I enjoyed looking at the fishing boats leaving the small bay empty and returning with a tasty catch from the sea. I tasted lovely local langoustines in a restaurant in the village.
Solas paintings - After discovering the all importand Co-op, I got the chance to wander towards the nearby sand dunes - this is where I discovered the best seashore in the world.
Dresser - In a museum on South Uist, I saw a dresser that fascinated me by it's character.
Norman's Boats - These were created after forming a warm friendship with Norman - a man who continuously nourishes the island's culture at it's best - and his hospitable family.
Morag's Aprons - The aprons are a tribute to Morag. I have tried to convey elements of Morag's life on them. They also merge scenes from the island with it's history and include words to some of the local songs.
Copyright © Catrin Williams
Design - Almon