Skip to main content
Advanced Search
© Palm Skerrett
, Irish, 1936-2020
Title
Emigrants
Datec.1960s
MediumGouache, graphite and ink on paper
Dimensions
41 x 28.5 cm
Signedlower left: Palm Skerrett
Credit LinePurchased, 2015
Object numberNGI.2015.3
DescriptionThis work treats the subject of emigration in a striking graphic manner. The dynamic composition speaks of the grimness of emigration: a swathe of anonymous, faceless men merge into a streaming mass to depart Ireland's shores. The uniformity of the colour block marking out the men and overall use of muted tones further emphasises this point. The luggage is picked out in brighter colours, the battered suitcases seem to have more character than the men themselves. Although associated with the Irish experience of emigration, this depiction is universal and could illustrate the current plight of migrants coming into Europe from Africa and Asia.
Inscriptionon verso (of frame): Emigrants
ProvenanceFrom the Estate of the late Charlie Hennessy, Cork; purchased, Adam's, Dublin, 1 October 2014, lot 3Exhibition HistoryNew Perspectives. Acquisitions 2011 - 2020, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, 11 May - 2 August 2021