Mary Coughlan: Covered in Roses / Covered in Ashes
Details
- Griffith Regional Art Gallery, 167 Banna Avenue, Griffith, 2680, New South Wales
- (02) 6962 8338
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- View website
- Event
- Date: January 24th, 2026
- Frequency: Once Only
Covered in Roses / Covered in Ashes is artist Mary Coughlan’s extraordinary and intimate exploration of childhood sexual assault and its aftermath. Trained as both an artist and a social worker, Mary Coughlan has spent a lifetime processing trauma through her art practice.
The exhibition presents a select series of Coughlan’s exquisitely crafted textile works. In her use of domestic needlework, tapestry, quilting and applique the artist subverts traditional readings of female domestic arts. Taken as a whole, these artworks trace and situate her personal story as one of abuse, shame and trauma, yet underlying is a steely determination – not to be silenced.
These confronting works reveal the artist’s personal journey of recognition, rage and resolution. They are also an example of the power of art to interrogate and communicate difficult subject matter.
Please Note: This exhibition contains sensitive content related to experiences of trauma, sexual assault, institutional abuse, gender-based violence and death and dying.
We understand that these topics may be distressing for some individuals and encourage you to consider whether it is best for you to proceed. Parental guidance is recommended for young people under 18 years.
If the themes in this exhibition raise issues for you, there are services that can help. Below you will find a number of services to help you out, including a range of 24-hour crisis telephone numbers:
- Murrumbidgee Accessline (24/7) on 1800 800 944
- Kids Helpline (24/7) on 1800 55 1800
- NSW Sexual Violence Helpline (24/7) on 1800 424 017
- Lifeline Australia (24/7) on 13 11 14
This exhibition was developed by Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
Exhibition Dates: On display from 11am Saturday 24 January, closes Sunday 22 February 2pm.
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday: 10am – 5pm, Weekends: 11am – 2pm.
Read more
Covered in Roses / Covered in Ashes is artist Mary Coughlan’s extraordinary and intimate exploration of childhood sexual assault and its aftermath. Trained as both an artist and a social worker, Mary Coughlan has spent a lifetime processing trauma through her art practice.
The exhibition presents a select series of Coughlan’s exquisitely crafted textile works. In her use of domestic needlework, tapestry, quilting and applique the artist subverts traditional readings of female domestic arts. Taken as a whole, these artworks trace and situate her personal story as one of abuse, shame and trauma, yet underlying is a steely determination – not to be silenced.
These confronting works reveal the artist’s personal journey of recognition, rage and resolution. They are also an example of the power of art to interrogate and communicate difficult subject matter.
Please Note: This exhibition contains sensitive content related to experiences of trauma, sexual assault, institutional abuse, gender-based violence and death and dying.
We understand that these topics may be distressing for some individuals and encourage you to consider whether it is best for you to proceed. Parental guidance is recommended for young people under 18 years.
If the themes in this exhibition raise issues for you, there are services that can help. Below you will find a number of services to help you out, including a range of 24-hour crisis telephone numbers:
- Murrumbidgee Accessline (24/7) on 1800 800 944
- Kids Helpline (24/7) on 1800 55 1800
- NSW Sexual Violence Helpline (24/7) on 1800 424 017
- Lifeline Australia (24/7) on 13 11 14
This exhibition was developed by Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
Exhibition Dates: On display from 11am Saturday 24 January, closes Sunday 22 February 2pm.
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday: 10am – 5pm, Weekends: 11am – 2pm.