Townscape, the portraits of homes in Stradbally, has already received a warm local response, but is now receiving national attention as it opened at the Irish Architectural Archive (IAA) in 45 Merrion Square East, Dublin 2 on Tuesday May 8.
The Mary Burke creations received huge attention from the large attendance gathered, which included members of the Active Retirement group from Stradbally.
The reception on the night was sponsored by Ballykilcavan Brewery and the owner, David Walsh-Kemmis, was on hand to serve a variety of his ales and beer to the public.
Present on the evening were Minister Charles Flanagan, Deputy Sean Fleming and Chief Executive of Laois County Council John Mulholland.
Speeches were made by the Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council Padraig Fleming, Arts Officer and Curator of Townscape Muireann Ní Chonaill, the artist Mary Burke and Minister of State at the Department of Culture with responsibility for Gaeilge, Joe McHugh.
The attractiveness of the Midlands
Minister Joe McHugh said: “These impressive paintings give us a snapshot of rural Ireland. There are no people, but the human touch is everywhere.
“It unveils and uncovers the hidden treasures of the imagination and invites us into the homes of the community of Stradbally. They are particular homes in Stradbally, but they could also be in any town,” he said.
Minister Mc Hugh added, “The exhibition also gives testament to the inherent attractiveness of built heritage as a subject and the Midlands as an area to live, its landscape, it’s culture and perhaps most importantly its people which provided so much inspiration for Mary.
“It shows how much art and artists are part of the fabric of the county, how the arts are valued and appreciated in Laois, and how we must support and nourish the arts so that artistic endeavour will continue to flourish,” he concluded.
Townscape remain on view in the gallery until Friday August 24 and returns to the Laois Arthouse for a final viewing in December.
A companion book called Townscape documenting the project is available to buy for €10 from the Laois Arts Office and the Irish Architectural Archive.
SEE ALSO – Sugrue sings praises of Portlaoise duo after remarkable comeback win
