Michael Collins – Commissioned by The Friends of Sligo Gaol

The Friends of Sligo Gaol commissioned Stroude to create a new portrait of Michael Collins in commemoration of his time imprisoned at the gaol 100 years ago. During her research, she was able to spend time within the crumbling prison walls and soak up the atmosphere of the building that once housed so many prisoners, some political, some not, some with serious mental health issues, some merely children.

Michael Collins diary, a day-by-day account of his time spent at the gaol, written in his own hand, was the main document that informed the making of the portrait. The insight that the diary gave Stroude was invaluable. Reading it, she shared moments of utter despair and frustration with him as well as moments of pure optimism and hope. Words from the diary have been transposed onto the surface of the canvas and are integral to the work.

On Sunday 9th September 2018, the Friends of Sligo Gaol hosted an event to commemorate Michael Collins’ time spent there. Phelim Brady MBE (noted scholar of Michael Collins Sligo Gaol Diary) and Mary Clare O’Malley (grandniece of Michael Collins) were both invited to speak at the event and Mary Clare as the guest of honour was further asked to reveal the portrait. Both guests gave extraordinarily insightful speeches that invited listeners to hear about a very personal side of Michael Collins rarely discussed.

Emma Stroude, Mary Clare O’Malley (grandniece of Michael Collins) David McLoughlin (Friends of Sligo Gaol) and Martin Baker (Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council)

Photography Peter Vamos 2018

With thanks to The Friends of Sligo Gaol, Creative Ireland, Sligo Library, Sinéad McCoole and Grainne Blair.