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NINE LIVES

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Above: Guest speaker Mario Corrigan, historian and author of  the book "Nine Lives", from which the exhibition got its title, speaks about the Irish Civil War, Rathbride Flying Column and how and why they became known as the Grey Abbey Martyrs

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Above: Speaking at the opening of 'Nine Lives' at the Kildare Courthouse.

Nine Lives is a unique exhibition inspired by Mario Corrigan's book of the same title and featuring the artwork of Greg Hallahan. It reimagines the heroic figures of the Rathbride Flying Column as Spirit Warriors. Through Greg’s art, these heroes are depicted in a way that empowers and inspires, offering a fresh perspective on their true likeness.

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The exhibition takes visitors on a historical journey, highlighting the pivotal role of the Rathbride Flying Column in the Irish Civil War. Mario Corrigan will deliver a talk providing context on the historical significance of these individuals and the dark period they lived through.

A key focus of Nine Lives is to remember seven men who met their fate at Curragh Camp prison: Patrick Bagnall, Patrick Mangan, Joseph ‘Jackie’ Johnston, Bryan Moore, Patrick Nolan, Stephen White, and James O’Connor. The exhibition also honours Thomas Behan, who tragically died while evading arrest, and Annie Moore, the fiancée and sister of two of these men.

 

These individuals are reimagined as resilient Celtic warriors, highlighting their courage and sacrifices. The choice of using bread trays as the medium for the exhibition symbolises the link between past and present, paying tribute to the religious devotion of these heroes. They are portrayed as passionate believers, guided by unshakable faith and hope.

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