‘The Emergency’’ 1939 to 1945: World War II era Ireland
1939: War is declared in Europe. Ireland is neutral but still affected. During “The Emergency” wartime restrictions make travel and photography difficult. Helen and Ernie channel their energy into creating a “Model Farm” and expand their family. Helen turns to local scenes having to do with farming and living off the land.
Insert photo of rural life during that era
Early 1940’s: Helen spends time in Dublin and London to enjoy company of other artistic types and escape rural life for a while.
1942: Helen uses part of her inheritance to purchase Burrishoole Lodge and lease additional farmland. She designs, renovates, and supervises construction at Burrishoole.
Insert photo of milking parlor (shows use of light and HH’s design)
Insert photo of archway and garden of Burrishoole
1943: Helen photographs the Kelly family gathering hay near their home.
Insert photo of Kelly’s in field
1943: Helen’s sculpture is displayed at first Irish Exhibition of Living Art, the Irish Modernist’s Movement equivalent of the elite and very traditional Royal Hibernian Academy.
Insert photo of sculpture exhibited. Need to find/take scan of “Island Woman”.
1945: Helen helps found The Players Theatre in Dublin where she designs sets, costumes and playbills. Insert image of restored maquette (scan?), costumes, program if possible.
