A ‘Snug Project’ for Ireland’s Alone charity
IRELAND’S pubs have been virtually empty since last March, and a new calendar with limited edition prints filled with poignantly empty spaces has been launched just in time for Christmas in aid of Alone, a charity enabling older people to age safely at home.
O’Connor’s Bar and Lounge Sligo Ireland, Image Credit Finn Richards
‘The Snug Project’ features 12 images by photographer Finn Richards, who reimagined a commercial project commissioned 10 years ago in association with Stills & Motion, a network of image makers and thinkers telling powerful stories through stills and motion.
J Coffey Tipperary Ireland, Image Credit Finn Richards
“All of the snugs were photographed empty which feels poignant right now as they are all closed up,” said photographer Finn Richards. “I have long been a fan of a good snug and being able to spend time, slowly documenting them was such an interesting experience and led to meaningful conversations about people’s favourite snugs. This feels like the perfect time to dust them off.”
As of last March when pubs in Ireland were forced to close their absence has been felt around the country who lost an integral piece of social interaction. ‘The Snug Project’ pays homage while highlighting the social and cultural value of snugs across the country.
Alone CEO Sean Moynihan said: “The Irish snug is reflective of the sense of community embrace, conversation and sharing of stories we all long for at the moment. As we approach a winter where we are spending more time alone we must remember to check on those around us who may be fining this loneliness all too familiar.
The Palace Bar Dublin Ireland, Image Credit Finn Richards
“This project is a visual reminder of the unique elements of storytelling and shared experiences the Irish culture embodies,” added Sean Moynihan. “We must not forget to continue to share those elements this Christmas.”
Calendars and prints are available online at https://thesnugproject.com @thesnugproject.
https://thesnugproject.com | @thesnugproject | https://stillsandmotion.ie | @stillsandmotion.stories https://finnrichards.com | @finnrichards | https://alone.ie | @alone.ireland
