South Longford artists unveil their latest creations at annual exhibition
Elegance, creativity and style were the bywords describing the Ballymahon Art Club exhibition showcasing the group's latest work.
Launched as part of the The Goldsmith Festival the art presentation was a continuation of the long running tradition.
The official opening was hosted by acting County Arts Office, Shane Crossan. The charming surrounds of the Skelly's Atrium provided a pleasing backdrop for the group's display.
Shane took the opportunity to pay a warm tribute to the recently deceased Arts Officer, Fergus Kennedy: “Fergus has left a great legacy, bringing the arts, in many forms, to communities across the county.”
He congratulated the Club's members, as well as leader and tutor Frances Kelleher, on the ongoing work and creative expression. The Acting Arts Officer spoke of the group's longevity, their outings and the perseverance of the annual exhibitions through the years, particularly their efforts in the last three since Covid, one of which was online.
Shane said: “Exhibitions like this are very important for the well-being of communities, such artistic expressions are vital.”
Club secretary, John Banim, complimented the group tutor's oversight of the weekly art sessions: “Frances allows and supports each member to express their individual interests.”
In her address to the gathering Frances Kelleher thanked all who supported the Club in making the launch possible: “Thanks to Shane for honouring the Club with his presence and taking generous time to chat with each of the artists. Also to the staff and management of Skelly's who have been so very welcoming and courteous to the group. Pat and Patrice provided a wonderful reception spread of canapés, cheese board and wines.”
Francis continued: “Pat Byrne, and his brother Peter, had been more than helpful and supportive in mounting and hanging the show, taking time out of their busy schedules to place ladders, hammer nails, and offer complementary coffees to all the club's workers! We believe the venue is the most exciting and attractive we've ever had.”
Frances also thanked Michael and Josie and staff of Cooneys Hotel and also The Sisters of Mercy for their constant support and the hospitality shown to the group.
The club tutor finished by saying: “I must acknowledge with gratitude and pride the talented group who are always cooperative and willing to do whatever needs doing with good humour, the mutual support and friendship under our smashing chairman Ciarán Nally.
“Ciaran was unavoidably delayed this evening, but was very generous with his time and expertise in preparing the show,” Francis said.
A warm word of appreciation and thanks was given to member Marilyn Fallon for her meticulous, very time consuming and very patient work with numbering and catalogue, as well as the contributions of Secretary John Banim, Treasurer Valerie Sheehy, and PRO Mary Buckley.
The exhibition remains open through June. New members are always welcome to the club which is now in summer recess