From A Distance art exhibition to run for the month of June

 From a Distance expo honours memory of past group member

Offaly County Council is hosting a presentation of the work of members of the Annaharvey Art Group, during the month of June, as part of The Atrium 2018 exhibition series at Áras an Chontae.

The Annaharvey Art group organised the 'From a Distance' show, to honour the memory of their friend and past group member, Ruth Colton, who died on April 18, 2017.

“Ruth was an active and enthusiastic member of the group. Her love of nature, in particular her love of flowers is evident in her painting. She also loved to paint people and places that had meaning for her. She was generous with praise and encouragement with group members and had a great sense of humour”.

The group of ten amateur artists, all of whom have varying degrees of artistic experience are: Dolores Hoctor, Olive Payne, Nuala Kavanagh, Teresa Fingleton, Marion Drennan, Joyce Meredith, Anne Dunne, Kay Kenny, Jenny Murphy and Camille King who meet weekly. Working in oils, acrylics and mixed media, on canvas and board, the exhibition showcases recent work reflecting their individuality; in style, subject matter and choice of painting medium.

Since its formation in 2012, following an art weekend, with Anna Winiarska at Annaharvey Farm, such was the enthusiasm and camaraderie that a core group of eight to ten women have continued to meet every Friday at Annaharvey. Anna a Polish artist living in Ireland since 2005, keeps a watchful eye over their individual progress. She facilitates a number of art workshops around Offaly.

Most of the artists had no background in art when they joined the group, a few had been painting for a number of years. As well as a creative outlet, each Friday is as much a social occasion for the group. The artists get great encouragement, inspiration and learn from one another as everyone has something different to offer.

Exhibition launch takes place Tuesday June 12 at 5.30pm in Áras an Chontae, Tullamore.

The From a Distance exhibition is open weekdays from 9.30am to 4pm in The Atrium, Áras an Chontae Tullamore and continues until July 13. All welcome. For more information please visit www.offaly.ie/arts