Photography, Storytelling & Myth

SAINT BRIGID’S CLOAK & THE CAILLEACH’S LOBSTER

Set in the landscape of Ireland, this combination of two folktales emphasises female resourcefulness in the face of adversity, ownership of self and land, sisterhood and treasure and abundance; featuring the archetypes of the Cunning Maiden and Wise Crone, we encounter magical textiles, treasure chests, fire, and a feisty pet lobster!

The workshop is an immersive experience and throughout the day we’ll be listening to stories, dressing up, having fun and creating images – alone and with others. We’ll reflect on what we create together at the end of the day.

The aim of the workshop is to generate photographic work that derives from and embodies our responses to ancient tales. A photographic background is not a requirement – we welcome experienced photographers and those new to the medium but you will need to bring a camera or a camera-phone with you. (please do contact us with any further questions about this).

The workshop takes place in the Library at Conway Hall and is led by photographer Grace Gelder and designer-maker & storyteller Imogen Di Sapia. Grace brings her extensive experience as a photographer & educator and Imogen weaves together her expertise in storytelling, craft and a background in fashion & costume.

Here is some feedback from our last event:

“I was intrigued by this workshop mixing storytelling with dressing up and self-portraiture. But I couldn’t have known what a powerful effect being still and listening to Imogen’s stories would have on me. Many emotions came up as I listened and connected to their themes, particularly on realising and revealing the self. Focussing on the images created through listening and later playing with the costumes and our cameras, was the perfect way to lighten and energise the deeper, more poignant connections I made to the stories. The workshop was not onlycreative and fun, but moving and healing. I would love to do more work in this vein. Thank you Grace and Imogen!”

“Beautifully presented workshop that was the perfect start to the weekend. Stories told in an intimate and sensitive way, which encouraged you to think. Love it and took some superb photos as a result”

Cover image by Niaz Maleknia – taken during the last workshop

A note from the venue:

We are committed to promoting inclusive practice at Conway Hall. Due to the constraints of our building, the Library is not currently accessible to wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, we are happy to discuss with you how we can make the contents and materials accessible to you. We carefully monitor which events are held in the Library, and will use your comments to enable us to develop ways to ensure that everyone should be able to attend events in the future.