Gort Arts will host its 2nd annual Members’ Exhibition at the atmospheric courtyard garden and studio of the late ceramic artist, Michael Kennedy.
Kennedy, one of Ireland’s preeminent ceramicists, was also teacher and mentor to many, and a great promoter of the arts.
It’s fitting that his studio will showcase works by members of the lively Gort Arts group. The artists hail from Gort and the wider community, as well as from across Ireland and more far-flung locations. Their collective work represents a range of mediums and styles — paintings, textiles, sculpture, collage, pottery, printing, and more.
Chairperson Tommy Brennan said that by nature and design, the organisation is open to all levels of artistic ability. “Our goal is to make Gort a centre for visual arts. It’s one of the keystones of a vigorous and buoyant community culture. Most artists work in isolation, so events like these are doubly important. An audience provides final witness to the results of the artist’s solitary labours.”
Gort Arts members have had works exhibited at top venues around the country like the RHA, Clifden Arts Festival, Cairde Sligo, and the Ballymaloe Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition. Talented and enthusiastic Gort Arts amateurs figure large, too. All contribute beauty and thought-provoking themes to the viewer.
Mr Brennan added: “We’re lucky to have a vibrant and talented artistic community in Gort and the surrounding area and we are delighted to showcase their work and the work of artists from further afield during Culture Night. It’s an opportunity for people to connect with art and artists in Gort, view their work and celebrate community, culture and creativity. Whether you are a resident of the area or just visiting, the exhibition is a reminder of the richness that local imagination, talent and art brings to the community.”
The launch reception on Culture Night will feature refreshments and live music by Marijka and the Wayfarers. The garden will be lit by ambient light from paper lanterns made during a community workshop.
Gort Arts Members Exhibition at the Michael Kennedy studio, Boland’s Lane.
- Friday 19 September at 7 pm. Exhibition launch and reception.
- Saturday & Sunday 20 & 21 September. 12 pm – 6 pm.
- Friday 26 September from 10 am – 6 pm.
- Saturday & Sunday 27 & 28 September 12 pm – 6 pm.
Check the Culture Night website https://culturenight.ie/events/ or social media channels https://www.instagram.com/gortarts/ https://www.facebook.com/gortarts for more information or contact Tommy Brennan at gortarts@gmail.com or 086 8581689
