Professor McCloskey will discuss the vibrant artistic and religious cultures in Ireland during the Middle Ages with particular emphasis on the development of book arts leading to the creation of the famed Book of Kells. More than simply an illustrated copy of the bible, the Book of Kells included graphic devices designed to enhance piety through the medieval concept of meditatio. The lecture will include in-depth analyses of various folios within the manuscript as well as a brief tour of items housed in the ancient and medieval sections of the Museum of Ireland.
Laura McCloskey received her M.A. in Irish Studies from the Catholic University of America. She also holds a M.Ed. in Multilingual and Multicultural Education. She currently resides in Dublin, Ireland and is completing a Ph.D. in Medieval Art History from Trinity College Dublin. Her work focuses on medieval manuscript illumination in Ireland and its connections to points East; including France, Germany, and the Mediterranean world (most specifically Constantinople). She lived in Dublin while completing her M.A. degree and worked in the Dáil Éireann (the Irish Parliament) writing the Fine Gael policy on Arts, Sport, and Tourism. Ms. McCloskey wears many Mason hats: she is a Mason alumna (she received her B.A. in Art History), she worked full-time as a History and Art History Department administrator for eight years, and she was the Assistant Director for Learning Services for two years. In addition, she is an adjunct instructor of History and Art History.
A zoom account is not required to join, but a microphone is. Most mobile devices have microphones installed. If you're using a desk top, most webcams also have microphones built in. You will need to register for this class in order to get the meeting link.
If you have questions about the program or need help with set up, please email Caroline at cpak@alexlibraryva.org.
