Artists needed for new solar exhibition

An open call has gone out to artists across the universe, and especially Cork, to submit work for a new Leeside exhibition exploring the solar eclipse.

MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO) is inviting established and emerging artists across all disciplines to submit work for ‘Solar Eclipse’, a new exhibition exploring the solar eclipse as both a scientific phenomenon and a metaphor for transformation, alignment, and the interplay of light and shadow.

Opening in BCO’s new gallery space on 1 June, the deadline for submissions is 20 May.

The exhibition welcomes submissions in painting, sculpture, drawing, digital media, photography, video, installation, and mixed media. Applications should include a short artist statement of no more than 300 words, up to five images of artworks or proposed works, and artwork details including title, medium, dimensions and year.

Commenting on the exhibition and the open call, Donna Fitzgerald, gallery curator, MTU BCO, said it offers an exciting opportunity for artists to respond creatively to one of the most awe-inspiring events in the cosmos.

“Through this exhibition, we want to bring together art, science and public curiosity in a way that inspires conversation, sparks imagination and offers fresh perspectives on our place in the universe. We are looking forward to seeing how artists interpret the theme and transform it through their own unique lens.”

Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly, whether through astronomical inspiration, mythology, environmental reflection, or personal narrative. The exhibition aims to highlight the intersection of art, science, and celestial observation within the unique setting of BCO, a historic castle and contemporary centre for astronomy research and science communication.