Ciarán Ó Dochartaigh Explores Chronic Illness and History in New Exhibition

Artist Ciarán Ó Dochartaigh has launched a thought-provoking exhibition titled Vague Symptom Clinic at the Project Arts Centre in Dublin, running until January 17, 2026. The exhibition intertwines personal narratives of chronic illness with the historical backdrop of Derry during the tumultuous 1980s, reflecting on the impact of political violence on individual lives.

Ó Dochartaigh’s upbringing in Derry, a city marked by the legacy of British political repression, serves as the foundation of this compelling display. His grandmother, Celine Ó Dochartaigh, emerges as a central figure in both his life and the exhibition. Celine’s experiences, particularly in relation to her respiratory illness, inform the thematic core of the artwork, which also addresses the broader context of societal trauma.

The exhibition’s title refers to a type of clinic where general practitioners refer patients with undiagnosed illnesses. Ó Dochartaigh’s work draws parallels between the nebulous nature of chronic illness and the lingering effects of political violence. The installation Granny Lift epitomizes this theme, featuring a dual-sided light box. One side displays a pharmaceutical blister pack, while the other captures Celine entering a small lift necessary for her mobility. The installation not only visualizes her struggle but also incorporates a dynamic element; the light box is mounted on a pneumatic pole that mimics the motion of an elevator, accompanied by a sound of inhalation and exhalation.

Throughout the exhibition, Ó Dochartaigh emphasizes the significance of breath, a motif that resonates deeply with the experiences of both his grandmother and the community. His collaboration with glassblower Andrea Spencer results in a series of sculptures, including pieces titled Coughed-Up Lung and Airways. These intricate glassworks represent the bronchial structure of lungs, some appearing flawless while others exhibit signs of deterioration, symbolizing the health consequences of exposure to CS gas used by British soldiers against the residents of Bogside.

Ó Dochartaigh has noted the long-term health effects of this gas, which lingered in the atmosphere long after its deployment. His reflections on the respiratory issues faced by Bogside residents serve to highlight the enduring impact of political conflicts on personal health and well-being.

The Vague Symptom Clinic exhibition opens a dialogue about the intersection of chronic illness and historical trauma, encouraging viewers to reflect on the complexities of identity shaped by both personal and collective experiences. Through this work, Ó Dochartaigh invites audiences to engage with the stories of those affected by political violence, shedding light on the ongoing consequences that resonate in the lives of individuals today.