Emi's project, "and then I ran," utilizes self-portraiture and performance art to reenact her grandmother's escape from an institutional home in 1964. Through black-and-white imagery and vibrant color landscapes, Emi explores themes of loss, resilience, and systemic suppression faced by women in similar situations. She emphasizes the importance of remembering history, particularly in the context of Ireland's challenges with reproductive rights. By inviting viewers to reflect on these narratives, Emi aims to encourage ongoing discussions about justice and the realities of institutional abuse affecting future generations.
By removing my individual presence, I invite the viewer to focus not on me, but on the broader narrative of loss, erasure, and resilience experienced by thousands of women sent to these homes.
The two elements of black and white and colour flip back and forth to form a personal emotional narrative and wider conversation of power and suppression.
I hope this work encourages reflection and keeps the conversation alive in the pursuit of justice and reconciliation.
By keeping this part of history in focus, we ensure that younger generations, who may not be aware of these homes, continue to engage with the realities of institutional abuse from both church and state.
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