A Glimpse of the Emerald Isle

Solo exhibit by Elliah Chamberlain

Open January 31 - February 25, 2025
Reception February 12 @12:30 p.m.

When I was in Ireland, I discovered the profoundness of Irish culture through their people’s care and reverence for their Land. Each destination had a deep story, each name held a history, and every tale was not to be forgotten. Because they preserved these stories and ancient tales, communities became united under their treacherous and long history fighting for Irish culture and, at times, basic human rights. Thus, the Irish people have created a cultural value of respect for their Land’s spirit, longevity, and wellbeing, not to mention an incredible knack for storytelling and a sense of charming humor. Their respect is beautifully reflected in the building of highways around fairy trees, banning the use of billboards, preserving water, being mindful of consumption, eating and growing locally, as well as having composting and recycling alongside every single trash can. A wonderful sense of community and value for humanity is fostered through these intentional lifestyles. Thanks to the Gilman Scholarship, College of DuPage, and The Institute of Study Abroad Ireland, I was able to get a taste of this new perspective. The sacredness of the Land we are born from, reverence to its history, and a respect to its resources proves to bear a rich quality of life; this perspective, in turn, instills meaning into wandering souls. In Ireland, I had the opportunity to bring my sketchbook and watercolor pad with me everywhere I went. I wanted to document my time there in paintings and drawings as much as I could in order to capture an energy and life that a camera couldn’t. When I did not have time to paint, I did capture moments on camera to paint later at home, taking artistic liberties to try to reflect a little more feeling opposed to reality. The College of DuPage provides so many resources to send you wherever you want to go. I encourage you to have a wandering spirit and hunger for awe. Jump on these opportunities and press on with open hearts and minds. Thank you to all who took part in this adventure with me, and to all who could make it happen.

The following photos were taken by myself and fellow students at College of DuPage including:

Shaun Casey Miranda Casey

Connie Kollmeyer ( Professor) Cherese Wyatt

Corinne Myket Kaitlyn Maher

Sean Wagner Elle Rhodes

Dr. Niamh ( Professor ) Marley Hamil

Courtney Ewers Jeanne Beauchamp

Joshua Beauchamp James Caithamer

Rocio Velis Allie Knudson

Justin Martin