ADRIFT, an exhibition by internationally renowned artist and SETU lecturer Dr Els Dietvorst, is now open at the Wexford Arts Centre and Wexford County Council, running until November 29, 2024.
This impactful exhibition, which is part of a national tour, brings together Dr Dietvorst's expertise as both an artist and educator, offering an immersive exploration of resilience, migration, and the connections between people and their environments.
Creativity and connection
Originally from Belgium and now based in County Wexford, Dr Dietvorst has taught at SETU for several years, inspiring students with her unique approach to art that bridges creativity, human connection, and nature. Curated by Catherine Bowe and Karla Sánchez Zepeda, ADRIFT has already toured Ireland’s major galleries, concluding in Wexford with new works crafted specifically for the local audience.
ADRIFT is about exploring the connections we all share—whether through art, education, or the natural world.
Dr Els Dietvorst SETU Lecturer
Local community
Reflecting on the exhibition, Dr Dietvorst shared, “As a lecturer at SETU, I am constantly inspired by my students’ creativity and curiosity, and that energy feeds into my own work.
ADRIFT is about exploring the connections we all share - whether through art, education, or the natural world.
I'm thrilled to bring this exhibition to Wexford, where I’ve built lasting relationships with the local community and my students. This work is a reflection of those connections.”
ADRIFT features Dr Dietvorst’s dynamic and collaborative practice, which includes drawing, sculpture, film, and performance. Ilaria Berardi, a visual artist, assistant on the project, and former SETU student, described the experience as invaluable, highlighting the opportunity for hands-on learning alongside Dr Dietvorst in a professional exhibition setting.
Celebrated internationally
This exhibition enables the local community and students to engage with a globally recognised artist and academic. Els Dietvorst’s work has been celebrated in major cities worldwide, including New York and Brussels, and ADRIFT continues her mission of using art to foster dialogue and connection.
The exhibition opened on 12 October, 2024 with a gallery talk led by Dr Els Dietvorst and the curators. It is running until November 29, 2024.
For more information see WexfordArtsCentre.ie
Photos by Sasha Bratkova
