In episode 1 internationally renowned artist Colin Davidson talks candidly about a challenge in his own back story that has shaped his deep passion to give voice to victims and survivors of the Troubles.  In this conversation Colin articulates rage about the British Government's recent legacy announcement - which they contend will facilitate reconciliation, but which he argues crosses a line.  Ulster University's new Chancellor also gives us a sneak peak into his studio and who he's recently been painting.  He takes us back in time to powerful encounters he had with people he painted during the creation of his powerful Silent Testimony exhibition.  Colin Davidson speaks thoughtfully from the heart - and so this is a listen full of insight about this current moment we're in, as well as the spirited hope he retains for us as a society.

/Show notes/

*Silent Testimony - an exhibition of portrait paintings by Colin Davidson, which captures the stories of 18 people who lost loved ones during the Troubles. The collection of powerful pieces of art is a powerful response to the conflict and the profound impact it continues to have on thousands of people.  (http://www.colindavidson.com/)

*The British Government’s legacy plan - released on July 14th 2021.  The command paper sets out a direction of travel for proposed legislation that would introduced a statute of limitations to end Troubles-related prosecutions, establish a new information body and set up an oral history initiative.  

*Operation Kenova - an investigation being headed up by former Chief Constable Jon Boutcher into a range of activities linked to an alleged state agent codenamed Stakeknife.