Mirage By Vincent Sheridan

SO Fine Art Editions, Saturday 5th October – Saturday 26th October

Vincent Sheridan’s art practice delves into the complex social behaviors and mesmerising flight dynamics of birds, particularly crows, starlings and swifts. His fascination lies in the intricate ‘murmurations’ — the captivating brushstroke-like patterns formed by flocks in motion. This evocative imagery is central to Sheridan’s exploration of avian motion and serves as both a subject and a metaphor, drawing parallels between avian and human social interactions.

Sheridan’s recent works explore the survival benefits of large bird aggregations and how these are perceived by humans, embedded in folklore, and celebrated in myth, literature, music, and art. “The Mirage Series (now you see it, now you don’t)” is inspired by ongoing scientific research into the flight dynamics and social interactions of species like starlings, plover or shore birds. He examines how these birds can perform complex, spontaneous aerial maneuvers without collision, evoking awe and curiosity.

Award-winning printmaker, Sheridan was born in County Kildare and studied at the Dublin Institute of Technology and the National College of Art and Design, Dublin. He has been a full-time artist for over two decades, including time spent as an artist-in-residence at the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative in Cape Dorset. His deep engagement with bird behavior is informed by his travels, including his experiences in the Canadian High Arctic.

His latest series merges traditional printmaking with innovative digital technologies, such as video mapping and motion capture. This fusion not only enhances the visual impact of his work but also offers new insights into the hidden structures of avian movement. By investigating the rhythm and coordination of these flight patterns, Sheridan’s work reveals deeper connections between art and nature, providing a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of all social beings. The resulting artworks are living, breathing portrayals of motion and interaction, reflecting a mindful, empathetic engagement with our environment.’