Ireland: Crossroads of Art and Design, 1690–1840 – The Music

Ireland: Crossroads of Art and Design, 1690–1840 was a wonderfully appropriate title for this ambitious exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago. While it aptly described the intersection of artistic talent, both native and non-native, in the Ireland of the long eighteenth century, it also suggested the important social position that crossroads themselves held within Irish culture and reflects the very nature of this musical project. 

In the Ireland of centuries past, the crossroads was a meeting place, a place of frequent and vital social interactions. Neighbors encountered one another not only by chance, but also by design. Village dances (céilis), political speeches, sporting stand-offs, and meetings large and small were held there: these crucial spots functioned as de facto open-air community centers. 

The creation of this companion CD of Irish music for the exhibition is itself a modern-day crossroads experience. A diverse, inspired, and dedicated group of benefactors, musicians, sound engineers, scholars, photographers, graphic designers, and publishing professionals, along with a host of well-wishers, came together for a noble purpose: to illuminate and celebrate the musical influences at work in Ireland between 1690 and 1840, and to sponsor the composition of new musical masterpieces inspired by the themes of this historic exhibition.

What follows is an hour of music, some from the ancient harp tradition, some carefully chosen from the distant past by Liz Knowles, and some specially composed by Chicago’s own Liz Carroll. This booklet features selected images from the exhibition, brief notes and insights into the melodies themselves, and an insightful short essay on the role of the Irish country house. Taken together, it is our hope that these ingredients will extend the fond memories of your visit to the Art Institute while also serving to deepen your appreciation for Ireland’s boundless and cultural treasures and the people who create, collect, and care for them. 

Please enjoy this moment at the crossroads with us. 

Marty Fahey, Curator