The inaugural "Illuminations" exhibition at Kylemore was launched among artists and friends of Kylemore on Thursday, July 27th with great success. This show is the first to be jointly presenting work both from the talented students of the Master of Arts Residency at Kylemore (students from Notre Dame and the New York Academy of Art selected for the outstanding quality of their work), and from established artists of Connemara or inspired by Connemara.
The MFA students’ works are the culmination of a month-long residency program in the West of Ireland under the direction of renowned artist Maria Tomasula. The students worked in a number of different materials, ranging from photography, to digital design, to oil paint and graphite.
The MFA students with artist Maria Tomasula and Director Lisa Caulfield
MFA artist Thomas Callahan enjoys a successful night
MFA artist Ciara Rafferty enjoys a successful nightThe call for arts also received a wonderful and generous response from local artists inspired by the unique landscapes of Connemara. Visitors can admire Richard West's art of transforming found wood into sculptural forms and vessels, revealing the hidden stories concealed within, Bernie Dignam's ancient textile and printmaking techniques, Ena Lavelle's merging of abstract and figurative responses to Connemara's diverse flora, fauna, boglands, and beaches, work by Ruby Wallis (currently holding a solo show at the Galway International Arts Festival) and many more.
“High Ground VI” by Bernie Dignam
“Alder vessel” by Richard West (SOLD)
“Figment, 2019, Inishbofin” by Ruby WallisWe invite you to embark on this journey through the West of Ireland, as seen through the eyes and hearts of these extraordinary artists. We hope their work kindles a sense of wonder and appreciation for the captivating beauty of our corner of the world. Enjoy the exhibition, and may it inspire your own connection to the West of Ireland. If you are in or around Kylemore, come around and you may leave with your own piece of Connemara.
The show runs until September 27th. Join us in celebrating the vibrant arts scene at Kylemore and Notre Dame!