In 2025, Belfast artist Gail Ritchie undertook an art residency at La Coupole in Saint-Omer, France, as part of the Art of Remembrance project. Her work explores memory through historical and personal perspectives, drawing on her great-grandfather’s experience in World War I and her research on conflicts such as the ‘Troubles’ in Northern Ireland.
The residency included two main public events. On 18 June 2025, Ritchie led a workshop at the Saint-Omer Art School for students aged 13–18. She presented her artistic portfolio, explained her creative process, and demonstrated how she connects questions of memory to her artworks. The students had the opportunity to explore different artistic techniques, ask questions, and gain insight into what an artistic residency entails, discovering both the La Coupole site and its historical significance.
On 20 September, during the European Heritage Days, Ritchie gave a conference at La Coupole for an adult audience. She traced the evolution of her career, shared her ongoing research, and discussed her artistic approach within the residency. A lively Q&A followed, reflecting strong audience engagement and curiosity about her work and the site’s history.
Through these activities, Ritchie engaged both young students and a wider public, introducing them to her artistic language and the theme of memory. Audiences were also encouraged to follow the development of the project and look forward to the final Art of Remembrance travelling exhibition, which will be hosted at La Coupole in September 2026.
