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CALL FOR TRAD EPHEMERA

A Feeling in the Blood, is an exhibition by artist and fiddle player Susan Hughes, at the MAC coinciding with Belfast Trad Fest and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Hughes, from Belfast, will explore the rich history of Irish traditional dance, music and song, tapping into her own passion and obsession.

The exhibition will be collaborative / participatory / interactive and will be activated by live dancing and music, and we want to involve you.

Can you contribute to a civic trad music archive as part of this exhibition?

What do I contribute?

We are looking for something of significance relating to your experience of trad over the years, something with a story.

For example: a printed photo, a 35mm slide, an instrument, book, poster, dance shoes, piece of clothing, bit of paper, a digital photo, a cassette, CD or DVD, a digital clip or recording.

It could seem random but with some context it can become a portal to another world.

How will my object be treated?

The archive will be a collection of ephemera which will be exhibited alongside the artist’s own work. We will treat the objects as museum items: catalogued, stored in a safe environment, installed by expert technicians, and protected by an invigilator.

Small caption cards will provide context for the items.

Will I get my object back?

Yes, unless you wish to donate it. We will return the items after the exhibition is taken down in October 2026.

How do I participate?

Items should be with the artist/curator by 1st May 2026. To submit your information please fill in this form:

Click here to submit your information