Julie Merriman

Ireland, b. 1963

The work of an engineer is often hidden, concerned with the internal workings of a subject. This information, however, is conveyed through the language of drawing, using mathematics, physics, and quantitative measurable criteria such as weight, scale, and balance. In constructing a drawing, Merriman considers these elements, but in an alternative way and for different purposes — drawing becomes a form of problem solving. Her work focuses on the current state of the built environment from the point of view of an architect and engineer. The drawings presented were developed on residency at University College Dublin (UCD) College of Engineering and Architecture, and look at how technology currently influences architectural and engineering projects and the role it plays in linking an idea, its communication, and visual realisation. By enabling the fabrication of structures and surfaces not previously possible, technology has the potential to change our built environment and to aid its conservation.

Julie Merriman creates large-scale drawings and uses the visual languages and methodologies of other professions: architects, engineers, scientists, cartographers, and mathematicians. Solo exhibitions include: Revisions, Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane (2016); Part Drawing, Drawing Project, Dublin (2014); and Draw Full Size , RHA Ashford Gallery, Dublin (2012). Group exhibitions include: Tulca Festival of Visual Art, Galway, A Knowing Nature, The Dock, Leitrim (2016); Uncovering a Collection (2015); and Soundings (2014), Municipal Gallery, DLR Lexicon, Co. Dublin.

(Text: 38th EVA International catalogue)