Siobhan Hannigan
I wanna be.....me?
2D and 3D works in mixed media, including ink, old calendar, found objects, and clay, and sculpti
in the Budgeon’s display case, foyer Richmond Library
415 Church Street, Richmond
14 June to 7 September 2025
Review by Nathan Moshinsky
Siobhan is a committed teacher and has been awarded degrees in teaching methods in mathematics, and teaching English as a second language. She also received a Graduate Diploma, in drama in education, and a B. Sc. (Hons.) majoring in psychology and physiology with a sub major in mathematics. She has also been awarded a B.Ed. (Counselling).
In addition to her qualifications and skills as an educator, Siobhan has a passion for practising and studying visual art. She was awarded a Diploma of Visual Art in 2012 by the Council of Adult Education. Siobhan has exhibited her work at numerous shows, including exhibitions organised by the CAS, for over 30 years.
The Budgeons Case with Siobhan Hannigan’s display
Some of the support materials in Siobhan’s display
Siobhan has assembled a delightful exhibition of drawings and sculptures in the Richmond library. They consist of 2D and 3D works of mixed media including clay, found objects and ink on old calendar.
Pumzika (Relax) & Sloth, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
Mtiririki (flow) & Leafy Sea Dragon, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
In her artist statement Siobhan states that she wants to express feelings common to many people who struggle to accept themselves as unique beings and instead imagine the “other” is living the kind of life which is perceived as being more desirable. Her art work in this exhibition, seeks to portray different aspects of life that each creature yearns to be, and also to capture the beliefs held by many, that believing that if they were these creatures they’d have the strengths and attributes required to live life fully.
Jasiri (Brave) & Lion, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
Marafiki (Friendly) & turtles & men, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
However, Siobhan also points to the commonality shared by all creatures. In the process of identifying with another creature, we see that “the other” carries qualities that can be found within ourselves.
Upendo (Love) & Elephants, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
Parnoja (Together) & Otter & Butterfly, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
Siobhan has produced sensitive and original works expressing her ideas. This work is displayed in pairs, with watercolour and ink drawing contrasted with clay figures, as well as separate pairs of sculptures. There is a similarity between the appearance of the creatures but also a diversity. Commonality yet individuality.
Kigali (Social) & Frog, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
Inaelea (Float) & Spotted Hand Fish, mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
The sculptures’ names are Swahili for each of the characteristics they yearn for. Siobhan grew up in Kenya and became familiar with Swahili. As an Irish white child, she yearned to be to be a black African. This mixture of cultures comes across strongly in the show particularly because of the use of Swahili names.
Papa Sara (Here Now), mixed media, 14 x 23 x 7 cm, by Siobhan Hannigan
A close up of Siobhan’s display in the Budgeons Case
The exhibition by Siobhan is ingenious, original and with a touch of humour. I urge members of the CAS to visit the Richmond library to see it.