Two solo exhibitions at Solas Art Gallery, opening on Friday 5 th September at 7.30pm.
Senga Sharkey – ‘Somewhere Between Two Extremes’
Sylvia Thirlway – ‘Elemental Spaces’
Solas Art Gallery anticipates their latest exhibition will be an extraordinary experience as
they celebrate the unique art and creativity of two artists: Senga Sharkey & Sylvia Thirlway
at the Island Theatre, Ballinamore.
Senga Sharkey of Co. Fermanagh explores a delicate artistic balance between abstract and the
familiar. Her exhibition aptly titled ‘Somewhere Between Two Extremes’ emphasises the
power of storytelling. In both semi-abstract and fully abstract style, memories, feelings and
imagination are transformed with a fusion of colourful textured mediums, collage, acrylic and
mixed media. Often these stories are only partially told as Senga aims for a contemplative
response from viewers; ‘I primarily aim for an emotional response from viewers, who can
project their own feelings and experiences, and make what they will of my work’.
Co-joining artist & poet Sylvia Thirlway indicates her passion for all things natural after
laying down her brushes for a long time. On return from her previous acrylic painting, Sylvia
discovered her adoration of oils, as it blends and flows over many differing surfaces,
including her chosen wood panels and canvas boards. Her exhibition titled ‘Elemental
Spaces’ is inspired by the state of the planet and the way many societies have forgotten how
to value the natural world and all its wonders. “Once a beautiful bountiful land of diversity
and vitality Cradling us like healing hands, though facing now a new fragility”
This thought-provoking exhibition will be officially opened by award-winning poet, short
story writer, filmmaker & contemporary artist Teresa Godfrey. Join us for what promises to
be an invigorating evening of storytelling and poetry through the power of visual art, the
spoken word & creative expressions on Friday 5th Sept at 7:30pm. Refreshments will also be
served. This exhibition will run until 3 rd October.
