Photo albums give a fascinating insight into our private histories. They reveal details about how people lived and worked that official historical records often overlook. The project looks at the role photography plays in constructing and commemorating our histories – viewed from the perspective of private individuals and families.
Gallery of Photography Ireland have worked with Donegal County Museum to record family histories reflected in private family photo collections from County Donegal families. The project actively seeks to represent a diverse cross section of communities and experiences. This emerging, democratic archive explores themes of identity, changing social conditions, emigration and effects of conflict – preserving this important cultural material for future generations.
This exhibition features a small selection of images from the photo album collections of the Law, Scott and Roulston families from County Donegal. The archive is continuing to build. The work of the archive is shared online and through a programme of touring exhibitions and outdoor projections. We are currently working with families in Counties Monaghan. With thanks to the research team who include: Niamh Crowley, Brendan Maher, Deirdre McGing, Emma McGuire, Meave O’Neill and Aisling George. A special thanks to the contributing families in particular Robin Law, Hilary Roulston and Dermot Scott. www.photoalbumofIreland.com
On display is a Curated selection from Donegal County Museum’s exhibition, which explores the world of Lettekenny’s Oatfield confectionary factory through personal memories, photographs and artefacts. Oatfield Confectionery had seen many changes from its foundation in the 1920’s to 2010 when manufacture of the iconic sweets moved abroad.
