Arts & Human Rights with Smashing Times

In an era of rising inequality, authoritarianism, and threats to democracy, this episode explores the growing call for artists to speak out. We delve into the enduring power of protest songs as tools of resistance, solidarity, and hope—addressing themes from environmental justice and women’s rights to labour struggles, anti-racism, and opposition to fascism. Music that challenges injustice can inspire courage, spark dialogue, and remind us whose side we’re on.

We’re also joined by visual artist and interior designer Avril Murphy Allen, whose vibrant solo exhibition Alleyways runs at Smashing Times Visual Art Gallery, Dublin, from 5–8 February 2026. Through an explosion of colour, Avril explores overlooked urban spaces and the resilience, memory, and transformation they hold. Avril also features in the Solstice Light Art in Winter exhibition, running at the same gallery until 25 January 2026.
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This episode features an in-depth interview with Dublin-based visual artist Stephen Doody. Working primarily in sculpture, Stephen’s practice is rooted in collaboration, community engagement, and environmental activism, bringing diverse groups together through workshops, education, and creative dialogue.

The show also includes a special What’s On segment with recommendations for inspiring arts and culture events, including the First Fortnight mental health festival, TradFest 2026 in Dublin, Druid Theatre, Doolin Writers Weekend, and music from the legendary Mary Coughlan.
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On this episode Mary speaks with Avril Murphy Allen, a visual artist and interior designer. In this vibrant and engaging conversation, Avril shares insights into her artistic practice, creative process, and sources of inspiration, along with practical tips for working as an artist today. Avril is one of eleven artists featured in Solstice Light: Art in Winter, a curated exhibition currently running at the Smashing Times Visual Art Gallery, 30 Sandycove Road, Dublin, until 25 January 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Smashing Times Arts and Human Rights Radio Show: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows and WAVE 4Ever, a powerful dance celebration by UMAKOKO

This episode features reflections on The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows by John Koenig and interviews with dance artists Vithoria Escobar and Favour Oluwaseunla Odusola. Presenter Mary Moynihan explores Koenig’s poetic definitions of unnamed human emotions. Escobar and Odusola discuss UMAKOKO, their multicultural dance company, and its upcoming production WAVE 4EVER at The Complex Arts Centre on 6 December 2025. The show concludes with Sharon Clancy’s charity single “Éire Is Ainm Dom,” supporting homelessness services.

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