Henrietta’s Dance
Deirdre Glenfield at deAppendix
Henrietta’s Dance
AUGUST 21st – SEPT 6TH
Opening discursive event: Tues 20th Aug 7 – 8.30pm
Deirdre Glenfield in conversation with Siobhan Mooney at deAppendix, 30 Ardagh Grove, Blackrock, Co.Dublin
deAppendix presents the first solo exhibition, Henrietta’s Dance, by visual artist Deirdre Glenfield. This exhibition which features installation and video projection, was inspired by the story of Henrietta Lacks, a 31 year old impoverished tobacco picking American black woman. In 1951 Henrietta presented to Sir John Hopkins Memorial Hospital, Baltimore MD with cervical cancer. Cancer cell samples taken without her knowledge or consent during examination and were stored for later scientific experimentation. These cells subsequently were the first cancer cells to grow in culture.
Henrietta died 8 months later but her cells still live today.
Since discovery, Henrietta’s cells have transformed medical research, with scientists, now and then, believing that the secret to conquering death lies within her cells. Since discovery Henrietta’s cells have become embroiled in international politics. Her story explores the mystery of cell mutation, proliferation and replication within the human body, the political complexities of medical research and the enormous part that one person can unknowingly play in modern medicine.
Further events planned as part of the exhibition include on Thurs 15th August, 7 – 8pm, the screening of ‘The Way of All Flesh’, at the LAB, Foley St., Dublin 1, a BBC documentary by Adam Curtis at The LAB, Foley St., Dublin , followed by a talk between artist Deirdre Glenfield and curator Siobhan Mooney.
For more information or images please contact :
Ciara McMcMahon at deAppendix, 30 Ardagh Grove, Blackrock; 0035312785866 / email: contactdeappendix@gmail.com
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