Dorothea Lange's Visit To West Clare in 1954 – recording Ireland’s social history

Celebrated American photographer Dorothea Lange’s visit to Co Clare in 1954 was a significant event in recording Ireland’s social history. Described as the ‘mother of photojournalism’, she was commissioned by Life magazine to undertake a photographic study of rural Irish life. While less than 20 images appeared in the subsequent Life magazine article (including Paddy Reynolds of Kilfenora), the 2,400 images she captured are greatly admired for their beauty, elegance and simplicity. Many can be seen in ‘Dorothea Lange's Ireland’ (book by Gerry Mullins) - school children, shopkeepers, tradesmen, farmers, cattle dealers, churchgoers and ordinary people going about their lives.

This Heritage Week Event will include an overview of documentary photography and Dorothea Lange’s work, her visit to Clare, her iconic images and stories about people featured, the background to the documentary movie “Postcards to Send” by film maker Deirdre Lynch - plus a full screening of this hour-long movie - and finishing with an opportunity for discussion.

Presenter Ruairí Ó Conchúir has worked largely in land reform, conservation, agri-environmental farming and water management for over 30 years. Also a photographer, his images have featured in local, national and international publications. He has been inspired by the work of Dorothea Lange since an early age.