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Margaret Corcoran
, Irish, b.1963
Title
The FeatherDate1998
MediumCharcoal on paper
Dimensions
Sheet: 83.5 × 59.5 cm
SignedLower right: Margaret Corcoran
Credit LinePurchased, 2026
Object numberNGI.2026.82
DescriptionThis largescale study of a magpie’s feather illustrates the importance of close observation in Margaret Corcoran’s practice. Found at the entrance to IMMA, this delicate object inspired a series of drawings with the title ‘The Feather’ that explored ideas of abjection (being cast-off and separated from norms and rules) and unheimlich (something uncanny). In these drawings, the artist wetted, agitated and documented a single magpie's feather. Despite having fallen from the body of the bird, it appears whole and perfect, and alludes to both fragility and strength. Completed during her residency at IMMA as part of the Artists Work Programme, July to December 1998, the series of drawings inspired by the found feather formed part of her first solo show, ‘Companion Pieces’ at the Kevin Kavanagh Gallery in early 1999.Exhibition History‘Companion Pieces’, Kevin Kavanagh Gallery, Dublin, early 1999