Different Strokes

An exhibition of work entitled 'DIFFERENT STROKES' by a relatively new Tralee based Art Group goes on display in the new Samhlaiocht Gallery on Thursday 31st May.

"We're absolutely delighted to have the members of the art group displaying their work at our Gallery" said Trish Thompson, Gallery coordinator at the Samhlaiocht Gallery.

"This exhibition came out of a need to allow such groups the opportunity to exhibit their work in the public arena and Samhlaiocht wants to encourage all avenues of the arts in Kerry".

This Group exhibition is led by Tutor Deirdre Sheehan, who holds a B.A. in Painting from N.C.A.D. and a H.dip in Art & Design Ed.

"Since my student years at N.C.A.D. my favorite branch of research has always been the relationship between art and the mind", says Deirdre, "I particularly like the ideas of artists who explored this relationship, like Kandinsky and his books on how line and colour relate to music, or Rudolf Steiner, the psychologist, educationalist and artist who developed entire school systems where children learn their normal subjects through art, music and dance in a very therapeutic environment."

Deirdre spent many years teaching in various places, including Africa, and began teaching this group two years ago in Tralee.

"We began by drawing from nature and exploring colour harmonies, colour related to music and the emotional content of colour. My interest lies in the emotional response to the work during the process and as a finished piece, from the artist and spectator."

Deirdre likes to encourage painting in a relaxed environment and uses classical music during the class.

"It became clear early on that the students had no problems expressing themselves in very original ways, showing different tastes and styles so I try to encourage this. I encourage them to think of using the natural environment and imagination as a source of inspiration as well as looking at the way old and new masters have used paint technically. They are now beginning to feel more confident with paint so I hope each student will continue to explore personal subject matter whether to do with nature, people, or other ideas".

"The supportive environment of the studio combined with the gentle yet firm direction of our teacher nurtures the muse in each of us", said Geraldine Quirke one of the group members. "Humour and unity are the main catalysts of our group, each of us having our own unique style and supporting one another in pursuit of our different strokes."
 
The Samhlaiocht Gallery is located in the old Presbytery next to St. John's Parish Church in the centre of Tralee on Lower Castle Street. 'About Time' opens on Thursday 8th February at 7.00pm
Opening times at the Gallery are :
Mon-Thurs 9.00am-6.00pm and Friday 9.00am-5.00pm
Everyone is welcome.

For more information on Samhlaiocht please log on to www.samhlaiocht.com