Richard Malone, the innovative Irish artist, is making a significant statement with his latest installation, Cuimhne agus Séadchomhartha (Memory and Monument), showcased at the European Union’s headquarters in Brussels. As Ireland takes on the rotating presidency of the EU, Malone’s vibrant fabric sculptures are not merely decorative; they are a challenge to the art world’s historical narratives, questioning who gets a place in cultural memory.
A Farm Studio and a Noisy Assistant
Nestled in the picturesque Stradbally, County Laois, Malone’s studio is far from conventional. “If you hear any neighing, it’s not me!” he chuckles, referencing the lively atmosphere created by the farm’s animals. With lambs frolicking and a pack of dogs darting around, it’s a fitting backdrop for the artist, who thrives in an environment that inspires creativity.
Commissioned to create a striking installation for the EU Council’s Justus Lipsius and Europa buildings, Malone’s work is an embodiment of his mission: to redefine what it means to be Irish in an art context. He aims to elevate the often-overlooked contributions of queer and female artists, a move that he believes is long overdue. “A lot of art in Ireland was predominantly made by one type of man,” he asserts, highlighting the need for a broader representation in both collections and curriculums.
Crafting a New Narrative
Malone’s sculptures, with their intricate drapes and vivid colours, evoke a sense of whimsy and depth, almost resembling mythical beings. Positioned against the stark glass and steel of the EU headquarters, these delicate forms stand in stark contrast to the rigidity of their surroundings. This juxtaposition is intentional; Malone’s work invites viewers to reconsider established norms and expectations within the art world.
By incorporating elements from his own life, such as his upbringing in a working-class family and his learning from his decorator father, Malone’s artistic journey has been anything but linear. He mastered practical skills from a young age, gaining an acute sensitivity to colour through years spent observing paint dry on building sites. His grandmother’s influence in sewing further shaped his perspective on gender roles within craft and art, pushing him to challenge the binaries that often dictate these spaces.
Breaking Free from Fashion
Despite his initial foray into fashion, where he created bespoke pieces for affluent clients and even collaborated with the avant-garde musician Björk, Malone found himself increasingly disillusioned with the industry’s ethical dilemmas. “All you have to do when they email is say no,” he remarks, calling for more integrity within the fashion realm. An internship at a luxury brand unveiled the unsustainable practices prevalent in the industry, prompting him to pivot towards a more meaningful artistic path.
Malone’s breakthrough came when he designed a jumpsuit for the Museum of Modern Art’s exhibition, Items: Is Fashion Modern? This transition solidified his place in the art world, allowing him to meld his love for fashion with his sculptural sensibilities. His recent project for the Royal Academy of Arts further showcased his versatility, as he created a striking blue sculpture in just six weeks, a testament to the skills imparted by his father.
Collaborating with Legacy
Malone’s artistic journey has not been solitary. His father, who passed away earlier this year, was a steadfast supporter and collaborator, assisting with various exhibitions and installations. “He helped with practical things such as rusting and laying down carpet underlays,” Malone reminisces, underscoring the profound impact of familial support on his work. The legacy of his father’s craftsmanship lives on in Malone’s art, which cleverly balances fragility with strength.
As his installation approaches its unveiling, Malone acknowledges the complexities of displaying art in a high-security building. The EU’s stringent regulations regarding safety add layers of difficulty to his work, yet he remains undeterred. “There’s a lot of red tape around the safety of the building,” he explains, yet he embraces the challenge, knowing that his art has the power to provoke and inspire.
Why it Matters
Richard Malone’s Cuimhne agus Séadchomhartha is more than an artistic display; it represents a crucial dialogue about inclusivity and representation in the art world. By questioning the historical biases that dictate which artists and crafts are valued, Malone is daring us to rethink our cultural narratives. His work not only enriches the EU Council’s artistic landscape but also champions a broader understanding of Irish identity, urging us to embrace the richness of diverse voices and stories. In a world often dominated by singular perspectives, Malone’s vibrant creations are a refreshing call to action, challenging us to recognise and honour the myriad of contributions that shape our collective heritage.