In this artwork, the banjo player stands poised at the precipice of musical ecstasy. His carnival mask gives him both anonymity and theatricality, his vivid silhouette is highlighted against a backdrop of fiery reds, pinks, purples and yellows.
He is part of the universal masked tradition of the world. In Ireland he is a Wrenboy, Mummer or Rhymer, in Louisiana a figure in the Mardi Gras and in Italy he is a Commedia dell’arte performer. His short necked banjo, held close to his chest, is an extension of his body, the pulse of the music is coursing through his veins. His eyes are wide with intensity, focused on the connection between himself and the other unseen musicians surrounding him in the session. In this session they are lost in the throes of a shared rhythm.
“This painting evokes a sense of reverence for the banjo’s place within Irish musical tradition, a sentiment echoed by the late Mick Moloney, who championed the instrument’s role in the broader folk music scene.. Moloney, whose mastery and passion for the banjo helped elevate its standing in both Irish and American folk traditions, is remembered here as a symbol of the instrument’s deep roots and enduring influence.” Dara Vallely
Numbered & signed
Certificate of authenticity and Artist’s statement.
Limited Edition of 200
Print Size: A3
Paper Type & Weight: Hahnemühle Photo Rag® 380gsm
Print Method: Giclée
Printed by: Rush Digital Printing, Belfast
In this artwork, the banjo player stands poised at the precipice of musical ecstasy. His carnival mask gives him both anonymity and theatricality, his vivid silhouette is highlighted against a backdrop of fiery reds, pinks, purples and yellows.
He is part of the universal masked tradition of the world. In Ireland he is a Wrenboy, Mummer or Rhymer, in Louisiana a figure in the Mardi Gras and in Italy he is a Commedia dell’arte performer. His short necked banjo, held close to his chest, is an extension of his body, the pulse of the music is coursing through his veins. His eyes are wide with intensity, focused on the connection between himself and the other unseen musicians surrounding him in the session. In this session they are lost in the throes of a shared rhythm.
“This painting evokes a sense of reverence for the banjo’s place within Irish musical tradition, a sentiment echoed by the late Mick Moloney, who championed the instrument’s role in the broader folk music scene.. Moloney, whose mastery and passion for the banjo helped elevate its standing in both Irish and American folk traditions, is remembered here as a symbol of the instrument’s deep roots and enduring influence.” Dara Vallely
Numbered & signed
Certificate of authenticity and Artist’s statement.
Limited Edition of 200
Print Size: A3
Paper Type & Weight: Hahnemühle Photo Rag® 380gsm
Print Method: Giclée
Printed by: Rush Digital Printing, Belfast
