Eileen Gray is the subject of an afternoon of screenings and discussion at the Light House Cinema in Smithfield this May.

The Light House Cinema presents a day dedicated to and celebrating one of Ireland’s most talented, if sadly almost unknown, designers, the wonderful Eileen Gray, on Saturday, 28th May.

The celebrations kick off with a screening of Gray Matters at 3pm. This documentary, directed by Marco Orsini, explores the long, fascinating life and complicated career of Gray, whose uncompromising vision defined and defied the practice of modernism in decoration, design and architecture.

This will be followed by the theatrical release of The Price of Desire at 6pm. This controversial story tells of how Gray’s influential contribution to 20th century architecture and design was almost entirely wiped from history by the egotistical ‘Father of Modernism’, Le Corbusier, and of how her relationship with philanderer Jean Badovici further fuelled the rift between the two architects, both personally and professionally, consigning her legacy to a century of neglect and long-overdue recognition.

Question & Answer panels with the filmmakers and Eileen Gray experts will follow both films. Panelists will include Mary McGuckian (writer/director – pictured below, on left), Peter O’Brien (costume designer), Jennifer Goff (Eileen Gray curator, The National Museum of Ireland) and moderated by former Irish Times Environment Editor, Frank McDonald.

The event will also feature an exhibition of stills from The Price of Desire, shot by Julian Lennon and published by Stoney Road Press, and a selection of Eileen Gray furniture on display, courtesy of MINIMA Ireland.

You will be able to avail of a special €16 bundle deal if purchasing tickets for both screenings, or tickets for both films for €16. Note that this combination price can only be booked in person at Light House Box Office or over the phone at (01) 872 8006.

With the spotlight firmly fixed on gender inequality in the arts, both in Ireland and globally, the release of these films is remarkably timely.